May is National Stroke Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Act Fast, Save a Life

Every May, communities across the country recognize National Stroke Awareness Month, a time to increase public understanding about stroke symptoms, prevention, and the importance of getting fast medical help. A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Without oxygen, brain cells can begin to die within minutes. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the signs of a stroke early and act quickly. The faster someone receives emergency stroke care, the better their chance of recovery.

A quick way to remember the signs of a stroke is by using the acronym F.A.S.T.:

Face Drooping – Is one side of the face numb or drooping? Ask the person to smile.
Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
Speech Difficulty – Is the person’s speech slurred or hard to understand? Can they repeat a simple sentence?
Time to call 911 – If any of these symptoms are present, even if they go away, call 911 immediately.

At CCM Health, we understand how serious stroke care is for the communities we serve. Our hospital in Montevideo, Minnesota, is proud to be recognized as a Designated Acute Stroke Ready Hospital by the Minnesota Department of Health. This means our team is specially trained to provide emergency stroke treatment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. From the moment a stroke patient arrives, we are ready to act fast with the right equipment, medications, and expert care. Our goal is to minimize brain damage and help our patients get back to their lives as quickly as possible.

Dr. Emily Temple-Wood, a family practice and ER provider at CCM Health, shares this important reminder: “Time lost is brain lost. If you or someone around you shows signs of a stroke, don’t wait—get to the Emergency Room right away. Acting fast can save a life and reduce long-term disability.”