Do you know the truth about strokes?

Published: May 25, 2018 | Updated: September 5, 2023

Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S., according to the American Stroke Association. But what do you really know about strokes? Here are some myths that some believe about stroke — and the facts.

Myth: It’s hard to tell when someone is having a stroke.

Fact: A kindergartner was able to tell his mom was having a stroke. He may not have known what a stroke looks like, but he knew something was wrong. If you think someone might be having a stroke, use the BE FAST^* (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm, Speech, Time) test. Call 911 if you see someone having signs of a stroke.

Myth: Strokes only happen to older people.

Fact: Strokes can happen to people of any age, even infants. Nearly a quarter of strokes occur in people younger than age 65. The warning signs of stroke are the same no matter your age. It’s important not to ignore them, thinking it can’t happen to you.

Myth: Women don’t have strokes.

Fact: Women have a slightly higher risk of stroke than men — it is the third leading cause of death for women (and the fifth leading cause of death for men), according to the National Stroke Association. In general, women tend to live longer, which can increase their stroke risk.

Myth: You can treat a stroke at home by taking aspirin.

Fact: Aspirin could make the condition worse, especially the stroke is a bleeding (hemorrhagic) stroke. If you or someone you love is having a stroke, the best thing you can do is call 911. Every minute of speed treating a stroke can reduce recovery time by one month.

Myth: There’s nothing you can do to prevent a stroke.

Fact: There’s a lot you can do to prevent a stroke. Keeping an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers with your primary care provider can help. Your provider can work with you to help manage any conditions you have that increase your risk, including diabetes. Watching your weight and eating a heart-healthy diet also is important.

Myth: A stroke is a type of heart attack or seizure.

Fact: Stroke and heart disease are closely related, but they are not the same. A stroke is a disease of the blood vessels of the brain that leads to brain damage. A clog in an artery or a ruptured blood vessel can cause a stroke, which can occur along with a severe headache or seizures.

Myth: A stroke always has warning signs.

Fact: Some people experience transient ischemic attacks — often called “mini strokes,” which can foretell a future stroke. However, many people have a stroke with no warning signs and no symptoms, other than the stroke itself.