May is National Stroke Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to educate yourself about stroke so you are prepared if you or a loved one exhibits symptoms.

Myth 1: Stroke cannot be prevented.

False: up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable.

Myth 2: There is no treatment for stroke.

False: At any sign of stroke call 9-1-1- immediately. Treatment may be available.

Myth 3: Stroke only affects the elderly.

False: Stroke can happen to anyone at any time.

Myth 4: Stroke happens in the heart.

False: Stroke is a “brain attack”.

Myth 5: Stroke recovery only happens for the first few months after a stroke.

False: Stroke recovery is a lifelong process.

Myth 6: Strokes are rare.

False: There are nearly 7 million stroke survivors in the U.S. Stroke is the 5^th leading cause of death in the U.S.

Myth 7: Strokes are not hereditary.

False: Family history of stroke increase your chance for stroke.

Myth 8: If stroke symptoms go away, you don’t have to see a doctor.

False: Temporary stroke symptoms are called transient ischemic attacks (TIA). They are warning signs prior to actual stroke and need to be taken seriously.

Learn more at stroke.mwhc.com