May is National Stroke Awareness Month. Did you know? The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention states that around 795,000 Americans experience a stroke each year.

That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte wants to share some insight about strokes and how to prevent them.

Is There More Than 1 Type of Stroke?

There are three main types of stroke, which are ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke and transient ischemic attack. Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke, accounting for up to 80% of all strokes.

An ischemic stroke occurs when there is a clot or blockage in the artery that leads to the brain.

Stroke Symptoms

• Confusion
• Trouble speaking
• Vision changes
• Dizziness
• Difficulty understanding
• Lack of balance
• Weakness
• Trouble walking
• Numbness

How Can You Prevent a Stroke From Happening?

The good news about stroke is that it is an extremely preventable medical condition. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 80% of strokes can be prevented. The key to lowering your risk of stroke is to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Staying at a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol are key steps you can take. It’s also important to eat a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis.

Ways to Lower Your Stroke Risk

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Lower your blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Reduce sodium in your diet.
• Quit smoking.
• Cut back on caffeine.
• Reduce your stress.

If you or a loved one experience stroke symptoms, call 911 for immediate medical attention. For non-emergency health issues, visit the AFC Urgent Care South Charlottte website today to schedule an AFC TeleCare visit.