The Big Picture
Stroke is a medical emergency—and minutes matter. When a stroke interrupts blood flow to the brain, brain cells can begin dying within minutes, which can lead to lasting disability or worse. The good news: rapid treatment can significantly improve outcomes, and many strokes are preventable with the right risk-factor management.
What’s Happening
In recognition of Stroke Awareness Month, Intermountain Health is spotlighting both a real patient story and the key warning signs the public should know.
Bryan Maples, a 40-year-old stroke survivor from Riverton, Utah, describes how his symptoms came on suddenly—and how quickly things escalated. He noticed weakness on his left side and felt “weird,” including trouble with basic movements like stepping into the shower and lifting his foot. He chose to go to the emergency room, and within hours learned he’d had a stroke. He estimates it was about 45 minutes from first noticing symptoms to arriving at the ER.
Clinical experts emphasize that speed is critical. Jennelle Newman, NP, an advanced practice provider with Intermountain Health Neurology, explains it simply: “Time is brain.” As soon as blood flow is disrupted, damage can begin quickly—but there are treatments that can help when delivered in time. These may include:
A powerful clot-busting medication (often referred to as tPA)
A procedure to mechanically remove a clot from a large brain artery (thrombectomy)
Why It Matters
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S., but quick action can change the trajectory. The safest approach is to recognize symptoms early and call 911 immediately.
A simple way to remember the signs is BE FAST:
B — Balance: Sudden difficulty with balance or coordination
E — Eyes: Sudden blurred/double vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes
F — Face: Drooping or numbness on one side of the face
A — Arm: Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm
S — Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or inability to speak
T — Time: Note when symptoms started and call 911 right away
Understanding risk factors matters, too. Some of the most common include high blood pressure (the #1 risk factor), high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and atrial fibrillation. Many prevention steps are straightforward: take medications as directed, stop smoking, exercise regularly if medically safe, maintain a healthy weight, and follow a heart-healthy diet lower in salt.
The Bottom Line
If you think you or someone else may be having a stroke, don’t wait and don’t drive yourself—call 911. Treatments can reduce disability, but they’re time-sensitive. Learn BE FAST, know your risk factors, and get regular check-ups—because when it comes to stroke, acting quickly can save brain function and save lives.