See why these 3 myths about stroke are important

You may know someone who has had a stroke — or perhaps you hear more about this condition in May because it’s Stroke Awareness Month. But do you know how to separate stroke myths from facts? 

"Awareness is growing about the signs of stroke,” says Elaine Skalabrin, MD, a brain specialist and medical director of the stroke program at PeaceHealth in Springfield, Oregon. “But despite how common strokes are, there are still misconceptions about them.”

Being able to separate the truth from the myths about strokes can help you protect yourself and your loved ones. 

What is a stroke?

Strokes happen when blood can't flow to the brain — either because a clot is blocking it or because a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts. Each year, about 795,000 people in the U.S. experience strokes. The condition is the fifth leading cause of death, and a major cause of disability in adults. But there’s hopeful news here, too: Many strokes can be prevented or treated effectively when caught early. 

Here are three common myths about strokes, and the facts you should know instead.

Myth #1: Strokes only happen when blood pressure spikes very high

You might think your blood pressure is fine if it's just a little high. Strokes only happen when blood pressure suddenly shoots up, right?

Not true. Even slightly high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to a stroke if it continues over time.

"Hypertension is the most important risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes," Dr. Skalabrin explains. An ischemic stroke happens when blood can't flow to part of the brain because something (usually a clot) is blocking it. A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts.

"High blood pressure silently damages the small blood vessels of the brain, eyes, kidney and heart," says Dr. Skalabrin, "and many people don't even know they have it."

Fortunately, keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level can dramatically reduce your stroke risk.

"If everyone effectively controlled their blood pressure, it would cut the number of strokes in half," says Dr. Skalabrin. "People with high blood pressure have it for life, so I advise patients to become mini-experts on it."

How can you manage hypertension? Work with your healthcare provider on a plan that includes:

• Regular exercise
• A healthy diet
• Quitting smoking
• Taking blood pressure medication as prescribed

The goal is to keep your blood pressure below 120/80.

Myth #2: A "mini-stroke" is no big deal

Have you heard someone talk about having a "mini-stroke" that cleared up quickly? They might have experienced what doctors call a TIA (transient ischemic attack).

While the effects of a TIA are temporary, they’re still cause for concern.

"All strokes are a major life event," Dr. Skalabrin says. "A TIA is a stroke that almost happens but reverses itself. It doesn't cause permanent damage, but it should never be ignored. It's a major warning that there may be more ahead."

How serious is this warning? Someone who's had at least one TIA is almost 10 times more likely to have a stroke than someone of the same age and sex who hasn't had one.

If you experience stroke symptoms that go away, don't just shrug them off. Call 911 or get to an emergency room right away.

Myth #3: People in rural areas can't get effective stroke care

Living far from a major medical center doesn't mean you're out of luck if you have a stroke.

"Rural stroke patients should go to their closest hospital," Dr. Skalabrin says. "Hospitals in outlying areas can connect with larger stroke centers. They can also use telemedicine or life flight helicopters to help patients get the stroke care they need at medical centers with advanced stroke services."

Many regional medical centers offer advanced stroke care and work with smaller community hospitals. This includes PeaceHealth hospitals in Bellingham and Vancouver, Washington, and Springfield, Oregon.

Know the signs: BE FAST

When it comes to stroke, time matters. The sooner treatment starts, the better the chances of recovery. That's why it's crucial to recognize the signs of stroke and call 911 as soon as possible. Literally, seconds count.

Dr. Skalabrin recommends the BE FAST method to spot a stroke. This acronym helps you identify the signs and act quickly. It stands for:

• Balance: Sudden trouble with balance or coordination.
• Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing or blurry vision.
• Face: Drooping or numbness on one side of the face.
• Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm.
• Speech: Slurred speech or trouble speaking.
• Time: Time to call 911 right away.

"Faster response and advancements in stroke treatment have improved the lives of many patients," says Dr. Skalabrin. "These early treatments are great, but prevention is even better."