Stroke Symptoms & Risk Factors

When it comes to stroke, seconds count. The faster you or your loved one gets treatment, the less likely you are to experience serious, long-term effects. That’s why it’s important to know the warning signs of stroke and call for help quickly.

Spot a Stroke and BE FAST

  • Balance - Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
  • Eyes - Sudden change in vision.
  • Face - Sudden weakness of the face.
  • Arm or Leg - Sudden weakness of arm or leg.
  • Speech - Sudden difficulty speaking.
  • Time - Time to call 911 immediately. 

If you or someone else shows signs of a stroke, call 9-1-1 for immediate medical care.

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Stroke Risk Factors

Scale

Reduce your risk of stroke by working with your health care provider to improve your health. 

You have a higher risk for stroke if you have:

  • A prior stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), or a heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation. ​
  • High blood pressure that is 140/90 or higher, not well controlled, or a recent reading of 120/80 or above, especially if you do not know your latest blood pressure result. ​
  • Current tobacco use (smoking, vaping, or chewing). ​
  • Diabetes, prediabetes, or high cholesterol, especially if you are not taking prescribed medicines as directed. ​
  • Little or no regular physical activity (less than 150 minutes of moderate activity like brisk walking per week). ​
  • Heavy or binge alcohol use. ​
  • Untreated or inconsistently treated sleep apnea. ​
  • A parent or sibling had a stroke or TIA before age 65. ​
  • You have obesity (body mass index of 30 or higher). ​
  • You have not had a wellness or annual health checkup with a primary care provider in the last year, even if your answers do not show specific risk factors in this tool. ​

Because risk for stroke doubles each year after age 55 and, on average, women live longer than men, stroke affects more women than men.

Stroke Risk Assessment Tool

Strike first against stroke by checking your risk factors and taking action to reduce your risk.

Check Your Risk

Stroke Care Matters

Explore the latest news in stroke prevention and care from Cone Health Wellness Matters to help you take a proactive approach informed by Cone Health experts.

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