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.