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According to the Iowa Department of Public Health stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in Iowa prompting the need to bring awareness of the problem throughout the month of May.  Lynn Fisher from Washington County Public Health says working with your health care provider can help to prevent about 80 percent of strokes.  She says knowing your blood pressure, stop smoking, knowing your cholesterol level, controlling weight, managing your diet and exercise and limiting alcohol use are some ways to prevent strokes.

Fisher notes that knowing the signs of a stroke can be extremely helpful in stopping the long-term effects of it.  Sudden numbness in the face, arms or legs, sudden confusion, difficulty in vision, trouble with walking or dizziness are signs of a possible stroke.

Fisher says medical professionals can administer a clot-breaking drug to stop the effects of a stroke if help is sought right away.  To find out more about stroke prevention, Fisher recommends contacting your doctor.