Piedmont Henry offers free blood pressure screenings and stroke risk assessments

In observance of National Stroke Awareness Month, Piedmont Henry Hospital will provide free blood pressure screenings and stroke risk assessments on Thursday, May 9 and Thursday, May 23 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Wal-mart on Hudson Bridge Road in Stockbridge, Ga.

Hypertension - commonly known as high blood pressure - places unnecessary stress on blood vessel walls, causing them to thicken and deteriorate, which can eventually lead to a stroke. High blood pressure is one of the most common causes of stroke, according to the National Stroke Association.

A stroke or “brain attack” occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery or a blood vessel breaks, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain. The good news is 80% of strokes are preventable. This is why it is important to know the risk factors of stroke and seek treatment immediately when one or more of the following symptoms occur:

- Sudden and severe headache
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden dizziness or trouble walking
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking
- Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, such as in an arm, leg or face

For more information on Piedmont Henry Hospital’s free blood pressure screenings and stroke risk assessments during National Stroke Awareness Month, call 678-604-1040 or visit piedmonthenry.org.