Strokes happen when the brain is deprived of oxygenated blood. This can be caused by a blood clot or by a ruptured blood vessel. A stroke is a serious medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. Anyone experiencing symptoms of a stroke should seek medical attention right away. Stroke symptoms It’s important to know the warning signs for stroke. Get help right away if someone near you experiences: Confusion Sudden and severe headache Numbness or the inability to move your arm, leg or face Trouble speaking Problems walking An easy way to recognize stroke is the acronym BE FAST: Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes Face: Face drooping or paralyzed on one side Arms: Arm weakness or numbness Speech: Slurred speech, trouble speaking or understanding Time: Time to call 911 immediately Stroke causes Most strokes — about 80% — are caused by a blocked artery. These strokes, called ischemic strokes, prevent the brain from getting oxygen. Other strokes, called hemorrhagic strokes, happen when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. Complications from stroke Strokes can cause long-term disability or death. It’s vital to call 911 at the earliest signs of a stroke. Among the lifelong issues stroke can cause is: Problems speaking or swallowing Emotional problems and changes in behavior Pain or numbness Paralysis How to reduce your risk for stroke There are ways you can lower your risk for stroke: Keep your blood pressure under control. Don’t use tobacco. Maintain a healthy weight. Keep your cholesterol under control. Avoid developing type 2 diabetes. Don’t drink alcohol in excess. Don’t use recreational drugs. Control your obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). There are also risk factors that you cannot control, including your age, family history and a previous history of stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Stroke care at Tanner Our hospitals in Carrollton, Villa Rica and Bremen are accredited to provide stroke care, so you won’t have to look far and lose precious time seeking treatment. Our primary stroke centers are independently credentialed by The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (.pdf). We also offer comprehensive rehabilitation care, helping you regain your strength and independence following a stroke. More Brain Care More about neurology care. Neurology Care Helping You Heal We help you regain your independence after stroke. Rehabilitation at Tanner