By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

National Stroke Awareness Month takes place in May, giving everyone time to learn about strokes and how to recognize them.

Angie Stiner, stroke coordinator for OSF Saint James and Saint Joseph hospitals, gives people a tip on how to recognize a stroke.

“Stroke has no age requirement. Young or old, it can happen at any time. Research advances make stroke more treatable than ever, but you must take fast action and know the signs. Symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. At first sign, call 911. Time lost is brain lost. Every minute a stroke goes untreated, nearly 2 million brain cells die, that’s why stroke awareness, knowing the warning signs and risk factors of stroke are vitally important,” Stiner said.

Stiner was a guest on a recent Community Forum where she talks more about stroke awareness. That is available at wjez.com.