Time saved is brain saved
PADUCAH, KY (May 28, 2026) — When it comes to stroke, time saved is brain saved. May is Stroke Awareness Month, a time to focus on recognizing the signs and symptoms of stroke, understanding risk factors, and taking steps to prevent this life-threatening condition.
Kentucky is part of the nation’s “stroke belt,” a group of southeastern states with significantly higher stroke mortality rates. Lifestyle factors such as high blood pressure, smoking and poor diet are major contributors.
Stroke remains the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of long-term disability. Delays in care can significantly limit treatment options, making early recognition and rapid response critical.
“Time saved is brain saved,” said neurologist Joseph Ashburn, MD, with Baptist Health Medical Group Neurology. “The faster you get treatment, the better the possible outcome.”
Health professionals use the acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. to help identify stroke warning signs: balance loss, eyesight changes, face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty and time to call 911.
“These symptoms come on suddenly and without explanation,” said Dr. Ashburn. “Even if you think it could be something else, you can’t ignore it.”
While recognizing symptoms is essential, Dr. Ashburn emphasized that prevention plays an equally important role. High blood pressure remains the leading modifiable risk factor for stroke, and many of the same factors that contribute to heart disease also increase stroke risk.
“Before you recognize the signs of a stroke, it’s important to understand what causes them and be proactive,” Dr. Ashburn said. “Start exercising, stop smoking and eat a healthy diet. The risk factors are very similar to those for heart disease.”
There are two main types of stroke: ischemic, caused by a blockage, and hemorrhagic, caused by bleeding in the brain. Some patients may qualify for clot-busting medications or procedures to remove a clot, but treatment is only effective within a limited time window.
Conditions such as migraines, seizures and low blood sugar can mimic stroke symptoms, but only a medical evaluation can determine the cause.
“If you have symptoms, don’t wait or try to rest it off,” said Dr. Ashburn. “Call 911. Think of it as a brain attack, like a heart attack.”
At certified ACHC Primary Stroke Centers such as Baptist Health Paducah, care teams work quickly to assess patients, perform imaging and begin treatment, often within an hour of arrival.
“The key is recognizing the symptoms and getting to the hospital as quickly as possible,” said Dr. Ashburn. “That can make all the difference.”
To learn more or schedule an appointment contact Baptist Health Medical Group Neurology by calling 270.415.4800.