Mega Doctor News
A stroke can strike without warning, leaving little time to react. Knowing the symptoms and seeking immediate medical care can significantly improve a person’s chances of survival and long-term recovery.
More than 795,000 people in the United States experience a stroke each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
While anyone can be affected, the risk increases with age, making education and prevention especially important for older adults and their caregivers.
Check out the gallery below for more images of the event. All Photos courtesy of STHS
In observance of World Stroke Day, South Texas Health System (STHS) and Prominence Health hosted their annual CounterSTROKE: Combating the Threat of Stroke Conference & Expo on October 29, bringing Rio Grande Valley seniors and caregivers together for a day dedicated to stroke awareness, prevention and recovery.
Held at the South Texas College Health Science Professions Campus in McAllen, the free event featured bilingual presentations by STHS healthcare professionals, as well as an exercise demonstration and healthy cooking presentation designed to promote heart and brain health.
“World Stroke Day serves as an important reminder that understanding your risk factors and recognizing the warning signs of stroke can save lives,” said Alicia Flores, Emergency Medicine Resident, STHS GME Consortium. “The more informed people are, the more likely they are to seek treatment quickly when every second counts.”
Warning signs can include sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, particularly on one side of the body; difficulty speaking or understanding speech; confusion; and vision problems. Other symptoms, such as sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and a severe headache with no known cause, should never be ignored.
“People sometimes dismiss symptoms because they don’t seem serious enough to be an emergency,” said Flores. “But when it comes to stroke, waiting to see what happens can be dangerous. The longer someone goes without treatment, the greater the risk of serious complications.”
For 83-year-old Teresa Lopez, attending the conference was personal.
Just weeks earlier, Lopez experienced a sudden episode of dizziness and feared she might be having a stroke. Although physicians ultimately ruled out a stroke, the experience reinforced the importance of understanding the signs and risk factors associated with the condition.
“When I got dizzy, I got really scared because I didn’t know what was going on,” said Lopez. “At my age, I think it’s important to know what to look out for and what to do if something happens. I want to be able to take care of myself.”
Lopez, who lives with diabetes, is among many Valley residents managing chronic conditions that can increase stroke risk. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity also remain significant concerns throughout the region.
“While we can’t control every risk factor, there are steps we can take to lower our risk,” said Flores. “Regular medical checkups, managing chronic conditions, taking medications as prescribed and making healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the likelihood of stroke.”
In addition to educational sessions, attendees visited a community expo featuring local organizations that provide support and resources for stroke survivors and caregivers. STHS and participating community partners also offered health assessments and information about services available throughout the Valley.
Through initiatives like the annual CounterSTROKE Conference & Expo, STHS and Prominence Health continue to make vital health information, preventive services and support resources more accessible to older adults and caregivers across the Valley.
“If you or someone nearby experiences sudden stroke symptoms, remember to BE FAST and call 911 immediately,” added Flores. “Quick action can save a life and improve the chances of recovery.”
As the largest integrated stroke care network in South Texas, the STHS Neurosciences & Stroke Institute remains committed to expanding access to specialized care, promoting awareness and helping residents take proactive steps to protect their health. The institute includes the Comprehensive Stroke Center at STHS McAllen, Primary Stroke Centers at STHS Edinburg and STHS Heart, as well as six freestanding emergency departments certified as Acute Stroke Ready Hospitals.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools we have when it comes to preventing serious health conditions and improving outcomes,” said Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “Through programs like CounterSTROKE, we’re committed to empowering seniors and their families with the knowledge, resources and support they need to prioritize their health, reduce their risk and live healthier lives.”
For more information about stroke services available throughout the STHS network, visitwww.southtexashealthsystem.com.
To learn about upcoming community events and educational opportunities, follow the STHS Facebook Events page.
