Video: The 4 phases of stroke care — starting with prevention

The 4 phases of stroke care — Starting with prevention

Every year, nearly 800,000 Americans have a stroke.

About 600,000 are first strokes.

Stroke care isn't a one-time event. It's comprehensive from prevention to recovery.

Phase 1: Reduce risk

80% of strokes are preventable.

Take action now:

• Eat healthy and exercise.
• Don't smoke or do drugs.
• Keep blood pressure and cholesterol in check.

Phase 2: Act F.A.S.T.

Watch out for:

• Face drooping.
• Arm not responding.
• Speech slurred or impaired.
• Time. Call 911 right away.

People who get to the ER within 3 hours after first symptoms have less disability 3 months later.

Phase 3: Get treatment

Acute stroke requires immediate treatment:

• Clot-busting drugs
• Clot removal with a tool inserted into blood vessels
• Emergency surgery to remove blood from brain

Prevent future stokes.

• Medications
• Lifestyle changes
• Angioplasty or stenting to open blocked vessels

Phase 4: Recover

Regain quality of life after stroke.

• Physical, occupational, speech therapy
• Emotional support from therapists, groups

Advanced stroke care requires:

• A quick response
• Coordinated teams
• Individualized treatment
• The latest research

From the experts at Mayo Clinic.