Stroke Awareness Month: Know the Signs, BEFAST!
May is Stroke Awareness Month, a crucial time to highlight the importance of recognizing the signs of stroke and knowing what to do in an emergency. Stroke is a leading cause of disability and the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States. However, with rapid recognition and treatment, the impact of a stroke can be significantly reduced.
Sean Quinn, Stroke Coordinator and Assistant Nurse Manager in the Emergency Department at French Hospital Medical Center, emphasizes, "Acting quickly when a stroke is suspected is absolutely critical. There are time-sensitive medical treatments where every minute counts.
“By raising awareness about stroke symptoms and the importance of acting quickly, we can help save lives and improve outcomes for those affected by this devastating condition,” Quinn adds. “Stroke treatments are most effective within the first few hours after symptoms start. Every minute counts – ‘Time is Brain.”
Dignity Health Central Coast Neurosciences Services—comprising Arroyo Grande Community Hospital, French Hospital Medical Center, and Marian Regional Medical Center—is led by a collaborative stroke team, available 24/7, to treat the most complex cases of stroke from within the Central Coast region and beyond.
All Dignity Health Central Coast Neuroscience Services hospitals in the Central Coast region are designated Primary Stroke Centers, a distinction recognizing facilities that follow the best practices for stroke care. These facilities also provide integrated services in stroke diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
"Stroke Awareness Month is a critical opportunity to reinforce the importance of recognizing the signs of stroke and acting fast,” says Jessica Bower, the Senior Director of Perioperative and Cardiovascular Services, at Marian Regional Medical Center. “We see firsthand the devastating impact stroke can have on individuals and families. Knowing the signs and acting quickly can dramatically improve outcomes and save lives. Every minute counts when it comes to stroke care, and community awareness is our strongest weapon in the fight against this debilitating condition."
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die within minutes.
Time is Brain: Recognizing the Signs with BEFAST
The key to minimizing the damage from a stroke is acting fast. Use the BEFAST mnemonic to quickly assess someone who may be having a stroke:
B - Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
E - Eyes: Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes, such as blurred or double vision.
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 sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange?
T - Time: If you observe any of these signs, even if they go away, call 911 immediately! Time is critical.
Other Possible Stroke Symptoms:
While BEFAST is a helpful tool, be aware of other potential stroke symptoms, including:
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the leg
- Confusion or trouble understanding
- Dizziness
What to Do If You Suspect a Stroke:
Call 911 immediately. Do not drive the person to the hospital yourself. Emergency medical services (EMS) can begin treatment in the ambulance and alert the hospital to prepare for your arrival.
Note the time when the first symptoms appeared. This information is crucial for doctors to determine the best course of treatment. Keep the person calm and comfortable.
Do not give the person anything to eat or drink. If possible, gather a list of the person's medications and medical history to give to the paramedics.
Why is Being Fast So Important?
Certain stroke treatments, like clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics), are most effective when administered within a specific timeframe after the onset of symptoms. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery and minimizing long-term disability.
Dignity Health Central Coast Neuroscience Services’ stroke program is unique in that it offers patients an extensive continuum of care, from exceptional Emergency Department treatment to in-house acute rehabilitation.
This Stroke Awareness Month, take the time to learn the signs of stroke and share this information with your loved ones. Knowing the BEFAST acronym and acting quickly can save a life and improve the chances of a full recovery.
To learn more about Dignity Health Central Coast, click here.