In the United States, stroke stands as the fifth leading cause of death and one of the top reasons adults experience long-term disability. While strokes can affect anyone at any age, women are at an especially high risk. According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the third leading cause of death among women, with one in five expected to have a stroke in her lifetime. These sobering statistics make it clear how critical it is to recognize the warning signs early and take immediate action.

Stroke is often called a “brain attack” because it happens when the brain’s blood supply is suddenly cut off. There are two main types of strokes. The most common is an ischemic stroke, which occurs when a blood clot or other blockage prevents blood from flowing to a part of the brain. The second type is a hemorrhagic stroke, which happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, usually because of an aneurysm or a tangle of abnormal blood vessels known as an arteriovenous malformation. In both cases, areas of the brain are deprived of the oxygen and nutrients they need to function. Without prompt treatment, brain cells begin to die, leading to permanent brain damage, severe disability, or death. That’s why recognizing stroke symptoms and acting fast can make all the difference. Early treatment can save lives and limit long-term damage.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights five key warning signs that may indicate a stroke is happening. These signs usually come on suddenly, and knowing them could be lifesaving. The first sign is sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body. The second is sudden confusion, such as difficulty speaking or understanding speech. Third, someone having a stroke might experience vision trouble in one or both eyes. Fourth, there may be sudden dizziness, a loss of balance, or difficulty walking. And finally, a severe headache that comes on suddenly without a known cause can be a major red flag.

If you or anyone around you experiences these symptoms, it’s essential to treat it as an emergency and call 911 immediately. Acting quickly can greatly reduce the impact a stroke has on the brain. Experts estimate that about 1.9 million brain cells die every minute during a stroke, which is why time is critical. The sooner medical treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery and survival.

To help people remember how to act in a stroke emergency, healthcare professionals use the acronym F.A.S.T. This simple reminder can save lives. “F” stands for facial drooping. Ask the person to smile. If one side of their face droops or looks uneven, it’s a warning sign. “A” stands for arm weakness. Have the person raise both arms. If one arm drifts downward or feels weak or numb, take it seriously. “S” stands for speech difficulty. Ask them to repeat a simple phrase. If their speech sounds slurred, strange, or hard to understand, that’s another clue. And finally, “T” stands for time to call 911. Don’t try to drive the person to the hospital yourself—emergency services can start life-saving treatment on the way to the hospital. Getting medical help quickly can dramatically improve the person’s outcome and reduce the risk of lasting brain damage.

First responders are trained to begin treatment immediately, even before reaching the hospital. This early intervention is vital because the window to effectively treat stroke is very short. Every minute counts, and saving time can mean saving brain function and even a life. While anyone can have a stroke, certain groups are more at risk. Age is a big factor. Stroke risk increases as people get older, but it’s important to know that strokes are not just something that happens to the elderly. The CDC reports that about one in seven strokes occurs in people between the ages of 15 and 49, meaning young adults and even teenagers are at risk. Women are also more likely to suffer strokes and often have worse outcomes than men. Some risk factors for stroke can’t be controlled, like age, gender, and family history. But many others can be managed through healthy lifestyle choices and medical care. Smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, high blood pressure, and diabetes all significantly increase stroke risk. Taking steps to address these factors can lower your chances of having a stroke. Regular checkups with your healthcare provider can help you stay on top of your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other key health indicators. Managing chronic health conditions, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying physically active are all crucial for keeping your brain and heart healthy.

In conclusion, stroke is a serious medical emergency that demands immediate attention. Knowing the signs, acting quickly, and addressing personal risk factors can make a huge difference in preventing stroke and improving outcomes if one does occur. Remember: when it comes to stroke, every second counts. Quick action can save a life—maybe even your own. So, stay informed, stay prepared, and encourage those around you to do the same. Recognizing the signs and making the right call can be the difference between life and death.