If you think you may be having a stroke, do not drive yourself to the hospital.
If possible, do not have a family member drive you either.
Emergency medical teams can begin evaluating you immediately.
They can monitor your condition during transport and alert the hospital before you arrive so the stroke team is ready.
Those extra minutes can make a significant difference.
Who Has a Higher Risk?
Although strokes can happen at any age, the risk increases as we grow older.
Other important risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Atrial fibrillation and other heart conditions
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Previous stroke or TIA
- Family history of stroke
Having one or more of these risk factors does not mean a stroke is certain.
However, it does make regular medical care and good management of these conditions especially important.
Can Strokes Be Prevented?
Many strokes can be prevented by reducing known risk factors.
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Keeping blood pressure under control is one of the most effective steps.
Managing diabetes and cholesterol, avoiding smoking, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and attending regular medical checkups all help lower stroke risk.
Small changes made consistently over time can have a meaningful impact.
The Bottom Line
A stroke does not always announce itself dramatically.
It may begin with sudden weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, blurred vision, dizziness, confusion, difficulty walking, or an unusually severe headache.
Some symptoms disappear within minutes, but that does not mean the danger has passed.
Never try to diagnose a stroke yourself.
Never wait to see if symptoms improve.
If you notice any sudden signs that could suggest a stroke—whether in yourself or someone else—call emergency services immediately.
When it comes to stroke, acting quickly can save brain tissue, protect independence, and may even save a life.
