Stroke is the third leading cause of death in America. But strokes can be prevented. One way to help prevent strokes is as easy as taking your pulse. A risk factor for stroke, responsible for over 80,000 strokes each year, is characterized by an irregular pulse - a pulse that is not constant, but beats in an unsteady way.

You should learn how to check your pulse. If you discover you have a pulse that is not steady and constant, you should check with your doctor. With appropriate medical treatment, you can potentially avoid a devastating stroke.

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