Stroke is a life-threatening condition caused by improper blood flow in the brain. It’s also one of the five leading causes of death in the US. Even when a person survives a stroke, permanent brain damage is the most likely outcome.
Aside from a hemorrhagic stroke, one that happens when a weakened blood vessel ruptures, there’s also an ischemic stroke, which occurs as a result of an obstruction within a blood vessel carrying blood to the brain. The hemorrhagic stroke, caused by aneurysms, is rarer.
Luckily, the side effects of a stroke can be significantly lessened if you act promptly. Read on and find out what you should do in case you or someone close to you suffers from a stroke.
Although stroke signs vary from person to person, all strokes have a common denominator – they occur unexpectedly.
STROKE WARNING SIGNS
Talking with difficulty or talking vaguely
Hard time walking and having no control of movements
Numb face and limbs, usually on one side
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF STROKE
Sight problems in one or both eyes
Complete paralysis
Sudden depression
NOW, THE NEXT THING IS THE ACRONYM FAST TO EXPLAIN EACH STEP.
Face: Look at the entire Is your smile crooking? Is it saggy?
Arms: Lift your arms or try. Do they fall down?
Speech: Just say anything a few times. Can you talk properly?
Time: Look for help ASAP!
A stroke strikes quickly and suddenly. That’s why it’s of vital importance to act promptly instead of waiting for things to get better.
Don’t attempt to drive in this condition – it’s very dangerous as you can lose consciousness. Call 911 instead.
Even if the symptoms start to fade away, it doesn’t mean that you no longer need help. These are known as sudden episodes or transient ischemic assaults (TIAs) and they increase the risk of a real stroke.
Strokes sometimes resemble migraines, which can be confusing. But, have in mind that a stroke occurs suddenly, whereas a migraine develops with time spans.
It’s also important to know migraine signs as they increase every stimulus. People describe migraines as patterns, like zigzag or flash colors/lights. On the other hand, TIAs begin with discomfort and blurred vision, impaired hearing and less mobility in limbs.
Even though a stroke can affect anyone, it’s most typical of people suffering from:
Hypertension
Diabetes
Smokers
55 or older
Heart issues, atrial fibrillation and blood problems
Genetics
Aesthetic injuries
Migraines
In order to prevent a stroke, it’s important to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet which includes a lot of water, fruits and vegetables. Cutting out cigarettes and taking up regular exercise is also crucial.