The month of May is American Stroke Awareness Month. Did you know 80% of strokes are preventable by controlling high blood pressure? Stroke is a disease affecting the arteries that lead to the brain. It’s the fifth leading cause of death and disability in the United States killing over 133,000 Americans each year.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood vessels carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain become blocked by a clot or the vessels rupture. When this occurs, part of the brain can’t get the blood and oxygen it needs causing the brain cells to die. If blood flow can’t reach a region in the brain controlling a particular body function, that part of the body won’t work as it should.
Types of Stroke
There are three main types of stroke:
- Ischemic Stroke: caused by a clot obstructing the blood flow to the brain.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: caused by a blood vessel rupturing and preventing blood flow to the brain.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): a “mini-stroke” caused by a temporary clot.
"Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI) is bought with your health."
Stroke Warning Signs
The sooner you spot the warning signs of a stroke, the better. Use FAST to spot stroke signs and know when to call 9-1-1.
- Face Drooping: Is one side of the face numb or drooping? Ask the person to smile. Is their smile uneven or lopsided?
- Arm Weakness: Is an arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech Difficulty: Is their speech slurred? Are they unable to speak or difficult to understand? Ask the person to repeat a short, simple sentence. See if they can repeat it word-for-word.
- Time to Call 9-1-1: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if they go away, call 9-1-1 immediately. Time is critical so don’t delay. Note when the first symptoms appeared and tell the emergency responders.
Getting Covered
Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI) is bought with your health. If you’ve experienced a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) within two years, or more than one TIA, you will likely be declined for coverage. Other complicating health factors could make it even more difficult to be approved. Certain insurance carriers may be more lenient than others for specific medical conditions. Work with an LTCI Specialist to discuss your medical history and to find out if you may be eligible for coverage.
At LTC Consumer, we help individuals and families plan for their futures with professional long term care planning. If you have questions relating to being eligible for LTC coverage, get a free quote for coverage and speak with an LTC Specialist today.
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