We are first joined by Nanci Micke with United Way Fox Cities, to hear more about two of their initiatives. Fox Cities Diaper Bank and United Way’s PATH for Students are two organizations addressing needs in the community.
Millions of animals are out there waiting for their furever homes. In recognition of national Adopt a Shelter Pet day, we’re talking with Cheryl Rosenthal, the communications and education coordinator with the Oshkosh Area Humane Society on how to find the purrrfect pet for your family.
Cardiovascular disease includes heart attack (coronary artery disease), high blood pressure (hypertension), congestive heart failure, and brain attack (stroke), according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. In both Wisconsin and the United States, heart disease is the number one cause of death and stroke is the number five cause of death.
May is nationally recognized as Stroke Awareness Month. A stroke happens when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel, or when a blood vessel breaks, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain. As your brain loses the blood it needs, brain cells begin to die. Getting immediate emergency care can limit the damage from a stroke, so it’s important to know the signs and symptoms.
Think “FAST” — This acronym can help you respond quickly to a stroke:
- Face – Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- Arms – Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech – Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is speech slurred or strange?
- Time – If you observe any of these warning signs, call 911 immediately.
Your risk of having a stroke depends on factors that you can’t control, and those you can.
Risk Factors You CAN’T Control:
- Age
- Gender
- Race
- Family history
Risk Factors You CAN Control:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Weight
- Tobacco use
You are also at higher risk if you’ve had a previous mini stroke (transient ischemic attack or TIA) or heart problems. Fortunately, there are many healthy behaviors that can reduce your risk of stroke and improve your chances for a full recovery.
- Quit smoking
- Improve your diet
- Get regular exercise
- Control your blood pressure
- Reduce your cholesterol
For more information about stroke care, visit ThedaCare.org or Neuroscience Group.
