Understanding Stroke Risks
May is National Stroke Awareness Month, a time to spotlight one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the U.S. Each year, nearly 800,000 Americans experience a stroke—and many cases could be prevented with early detection and proactive care.
At Link Primary Care in St. Louis, we believe that knowledge and prevention are powerful tools for protecting your health.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes.
There are two main types:
- Ischemic stroke: Caused by a blood clot blocking a vessel (most common)
- Hemorrhagic stroke: Caused by a burst blood vessel
A transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” is a temporary blockage that serves as a warning sign.
Recognizing Stroke Symptoms: “BE FAST” is a good reminder of symptoms
Quick action saves lives. Here are some signs of stroke:
- Balance: Sudden loss of balance
- Eyes: Vision changes in one or both eyes
- Face: Facial drooping on one side
- Arms: Arm weakness or numbness
- Speech: Slurred speech
- Time: Time to call 911 immediately
Risk Factors for Stroke
Certain conditions increase the risk of stroke, including:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Atrial fibrillation
St. Louis residents face higher-than-average rates of hypertension and obesity, making proactive care critical.
How Link Primary Care Helps Prevent Stroke
Our Direct Primary Care model supports:
- Same-day appointments for urgent symptom evaluation
- Regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
- Personalized lifestyle coaching
- Medication management
- Affordable memberships ($99/month for adults)
Tips for Reducing Stroke Risk
- Monitor and control blood pressure
- Quit smoking
- Manage diabetes effectively
- Eat a heart-healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins)
- Maintain an active lifestyle
- Limit alcohol consumption
Time Is Brain
During a stroke, nearly 2 million brain cells die each minute. Immediate action is crucial.
If you or a loved one show signs of stroke, call 911 immediately.
For prevention and regular health monitoring, Link Primary Care is here to partner with you.
Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Davis using the following link:
https://calendly.com/jeffreydavis-linkprimarycare/link-primary-care-meeting
Get more information on our website at linkprimarycare.com
