May is American Stroke Month, and Peninsula Regional Medical Center is working to raise awareness. That’s because stroke is a particularly serious health issue on Delmarva.
The Stroke Team at Peninsula Regional treats as many patients with stroke symptoms every month as centers in much larger, urban areas.
It’s not just a way to show support; it’s also a step in the right direction to lower your stroke risk. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to high blood pressure, one of the major risk factors for stroke.
Free blood pressure screenings will be offered from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lobby of the Frank B. Hanna Outpatient Center at PRMC on Monday, May 11 and Friday, May 22. Knowing your blood pressure number is important, because there are many ways to control high blood pressure, reducing your stroke risk.
Most importantly, the American Stroke Association wants everyone to remember the signs of stroke using the acronym “FAST.” When you spot the signs, don’t delay in calling for help:
F — Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A — Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S — Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?
T — Time: If you observe any of these signs, then it’s time to call 9-1-1.
