Recognizing signs and symptoms of a stroke can be difficult, particularly if a patient registers no complaints. But time is of the essence when providing treatment to stroke victims to ensure they suffer no permanent disabilities. Know the signs and symptoms of a stroke and quickly evaluate a loved one who might be having a stroke.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the steady blood supply to the brain is disrupted or reduced, leading to the death of brain cells. There are two types of strokes: ischemic, in which not enough blood reaches the brain; and hemorrhagic, in which too much blood is in the brain. Most strokes--around 80 percent--are ischemic strokes, the most common of which are thrombotic and embolic. A patient suffer from a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is extremely short-lived and results in temporary stroke-like symptoms that quickly resolve. TIAs, also known as "mini-strokes," suggest the need for further medical evaluation, as these are often the precursor to a stroke.
Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke
Information compiled from the Mayo Clinic and the National Stroke Association revealed the following symptoms of a stroke: difficulty walking, unexplained dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, difficulty speaking (dysarthria) or slurred speech; difficulty word finding (aphasia), unilateral paralysis/numbness, blurred or double vision, and sudden onset of severe headache with facial pain and/or pain between the eyes. Sometimes vomiting will occur.
Quick Stroke Evaluation
If you suspect a loved one may be having a stroke, the National Stroke Association recommends a quick home evaluation. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence; if she has difficulty with this task, this may be an indication of a stroke. Have the person raise both arms over her head; if one arm begins to fall, this might also be a sign of a stroke. Ask the person to smile and note if one side of the face droops. Take note if the person's speech is slurred or if she seems to be having difficulty expressing her wants and needs. Make a note of the time the symptoms were first noted--this is important information a doctor will need in treating the stroke.
What to Do
Don't wait for the symptoms to go away. It is imperative to call 911 immediately following a stroke so that an ambulance can be dispatched. If emergency services are not available, drive the person suspected of having a stroke to the hospital immediately. If the person stops breathing at any time, use mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Turn the person's head to one side if she begins vomiting and refrain from letting her drink or eat anything.
Treating Strokes: Time Is of the Essence
It is extremely important to take immediate action in cases of a stroke: An agent called a tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) can be administered to a stroke patient within 3 hours of the stroke to prevent paralysis and/or other permanent stroke-related disabilities. This is the only treatment currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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