­­­­­­­­March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month and although hospitalizations and deaths from stroke continue to decrease since 2001, stroke is still the fourth leading cause of death in rural counties in Missouri, according to the Brain Injury Association of Missouri.
According to a news release, as an acquired brain injury, stroke can affect memory, thinking and reasoning, visual perception, balance and emotions of the person affected.
Sudden signs of a stroke are face drooping, arm weakness and speech difficulty.
If the person shows any of these symptoms, call for emergency assistance immediately.
A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack or an acquired brain injury, occurs when a clot blocks the blood supply to the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.
Remember: if you see anyone who may be exhibiting signs of a stroke, contact emergency personnel immediately.