A stroke can happen to anyone at any age, and younger adults are increasingly experiencing strokes and related risk factors, according to the National Institute of Health. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In either case, parts of the brain can be damaged or die, which is why every second counts.

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, a time when healthcare professionals across the country remind the public that recognizing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly can save lives and preserve brain function.

Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the United States suffer a stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fortunately, South Florida residents have access to high-level stroke care close to home. Palm Beach Health Network is proud to offer two Comprehensive Stroke Centers at Delray Medical Center and St. Mary’s Medical Center, along with three Primary Stroke Centers at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, Good Samaritan Medical Center, and West Boca Medical Center.

“A stroke is a medical emergency that demands immediate action, and our hospitals are equipped and ready to respond with advanced, life-saving treatment,” said Maggie Gill, Group President for Tenet Healthcare. “Our teams are committed to delivering high-quality, timely stroke care to the communities we serve, because outcomes are better when care is faster.”

While stroke risk increases with age, the CDC notes that risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and smoking are now appearing in younger patients as well. Nearly 87% of all strokes are ischemic, meaning they are caused by a blood clot blocking blood flow to the brain. The good news is that ischemic strokes are treatable—if a patient arrives at a hospital with the proper capabilities in time.

The CDC offers a simple test to act FAST if you think someone may be having a stroke: 

Face – ask the person to smile, does one side of the face droop? 

Arms – can the person raise both arms? Does one arm drift downward? 

Speech – ask the person to repeat a simple phrase, is the speech slurred or strange? 

Time – if you see any of these signs, call 911 right away. 

Also, note the time when the symptoms first appear, this helps health care providers determine the type of treatment needed. 

Upcoming events for National Stroke Month in the Palm Beach Health Network:

• Free Stroke Risk Assessment & Heart Matters Screening: May 22^nd @ Delray Medical Center from 8am-10am
• Stroke Survivors Support Group: May 28^th @ St. Mary’s Medical Center (repeats every 4^th Wednesday monthly)

If you are interested in learning more about these events or to consult with a medical provider, call: 888-318-0764.