Stroke Signs to Look For

Roberto De Vicenzo signed an incorrect scorecard at the 1968 Masters (the Argentinian's score on the 17th hole was three, not four).

He overlooked that added stroke and that disqualified him from the tournament and a playoff — the harshest penalty in golf.

Researchers recently did a study of stroke victims and discovered that two-thirds of those who suffered a minor stroke (called a transient ischemic attack) didn't realize that they were having a stroke when it happened.

Apparently, many folks don't recognize the warning signs — and that has far-reaching consequences.

According to the American Stroke Association, nearly 2 million brain cells die each minute a stroke goes untreated. That's why you should learn to identify the signs. The ASA says think FAST:

• Face (one side is drooping)

• Arm (weakness)

• Speech (slurring)

• Time (call 911 immediately).

The faster blood flow to the brain can be restored, the more likely your own repair cells can get you back to 100 percent.

But fully 80 percent of strokes are avoidable!

High blood pressure is the No. 1 trigger. So get your blood pressure checked (115/76 is optimal).

If it's high, work with your doctor to use medication, if needed, and lifestyle changes to lower it.

Get rid of all toxins, such as tobacco — a leading cause of stroke.

Aim for 10,000 steps a day and remove all added sugars and syrups, all trans and most sat fats and any grain that isn't 100 percent whole from your plate.