Stroke Awareness
Know the Signs. Act Fast. Save a Life.
Every minute counts during a stroke. Learning to recognize the warning signs could save your life — or someone you love.
Remember B.E.F.A.S.T.
The fastest way to recognize a stroke is to remember these six warning signs.
Balance
Sudden loss of balance or coordination, dizziness, or trouble walking.
Eyes
Sudden vision changes — blurred, double, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Face
One side of the face drooping or numbness. Ask the person to smile — is it uneven?
Arms
Arm weakness or numbness. Ask the person to raise both arms — does one drift down?
Speech
Slurred speech, inability to speak, or difficulty understanding others.
Time
Time to call 911 immediately. Note the time symptoms started — tell the emergency team.
If You Suspect a Stroke
Do not wait. Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Follow these steps immediately.
Call 911 Now
Do not drive to the hospital. Emergency responders can begin treatment on the way and alert the hospital to prepare.
Note the Time
Write down or remember exactly when symptoms first appeared. This determines which treatments are available.
Stay Calm & Still
Keep the person calm and still. Do not give food, water, or medication. Loosen any tight clothing.
Do Not Leave Them
Stay with the person until emergency services arrive. Reassure them and monitor their breathing.
Know Your Risk Factors
Many strokes are preventable. Understanding your risk is the first step toward protecting yourself.
Controllable Risk Factors
High Blood Pressure
The leading cause of stroke. Keep it below 120/80 mmHg.
Smoking
Doubles your stroke risk. Quitting at any age reduces risk significantly.
Diabetes
High blood sugar damages blood vessels over time. Manage it closely.
High Cholesterol
Builds plaque in arteries. Diet, exercise, and medication can help.
Physical Inactivity
Regular exercise reduces blood pressure and improves heart health.
Atrial Fibrillation
An irregular heartbeat that can cause blood clots. Treatable with medication.
Uncontrollable Risk Factors
Age
Risk doubles every decade after age 55.
Family History
A parent or sibling who had a stroke increases your risk.
Prior Stroke or TIA
A previous stroke or mini-stroke greatly increases future risk.
Race
African Americans have a higher risk of stroke than other groups.
Prevention Tips
Small daily habits can dramatically reduce your stroke risk.
Monitor Blood Pressure
Check it regularly at home or at a pharmacy. Work with your doctor to keep it in a healthy range.
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sodium, saturated fat, and processed foods.
Exercise Regularly
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
Quit Smoking
Talk to your doctor about cessation programs. The benefits begin within hours of quitting.
Limit Alcohol
Heavy drinking raises blood pressure. Stick to no more than one drink per day for women, two for men.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress raises blood pressure. Practice mindfulness, rest, and social connection.
We're Here After the Stroke Too
If you or someone you love has survived a stroke, The Mitten Aid Project is here to help with resources, peer support, and financial assistance.