What are the signs of a stroke? Free awareness event

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — “BEFAST” is an acronym to help individuals identify the signs of a stroke.

Louisiana is part of the “stroke belt,” a region in the southern United States identified by public health officials for its unusually high stroke rates, according to Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport.

Ochsner LSU-Health Shreveport says the acronym is a quick way to determine whether someone is having a stroke:

B: Balance (sudden loss of balance or coordination)
E: Eyes (sudden blurred or double vision)
F: Face (drooping on one side of the face or uneven smile)
A: Arm (weakness

or numbness in one arm)
S: Speech (slurred speech or difficulty speaking) T: Time (call 911 immediately)

On May 3rd, Ochsner LSUH-S and the YMCA will host a free stroke awareness event to provide individuals with quick ways to determine if someone is experiencing a stroke.

They say, “Every year, more than 2,700 people in Louisiana die from stroke, making it the fifth leading cause of death in this state. Risk factors (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol) contribute to the high number of strokes in Louisiana.”

The free event begins at 9 a.m. and will be held at the BHP Billiton YMCA at 3455 Knight Street in Shreveport. Interested individuals do not need to pre-register; walk-ins are welcome.

The awareness event is designed for the entire family, featuring guest speakers and demonstrations on healthy cooking and exercise. Ochsner LSU Health will also feature several interactive stations with activities suitable for both children and adults.

Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport claims they are the only Comprehensive Stroke Center in Northwest Louisiana, offering:

• 24/7 care with an acute stroke team
• 24/7 care for Mechanical thrombectomy
• 24/7 care for advanced neuroimaging
• 24/7 care for neurosurgical services