What to do in an emergency situation - Stroke

A Stroke is a dangerous and life-threatening condition that certainly constitutes a medical emergency. 

Stroke is the third most common cause of death in the U.S. Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted by an artery being clogged or burst . The interruption deprives blood and oxygen from the brain, and causes brain cells to quickly die. Seek emergency care as soon as a stroke is suspected since every second is important.

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Here are some stroke symptoms that one needs to pay attention to:

• Sudden numbness, weakness or paralysis and drooping of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Suddenly blurred or decreased vision in one or both eyes.
• Slurred speech, difficulty speaking or inability to understand or be understood.
• Loss of balance or coordination.

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Some people may have additional, nontraditional (sometimes non-neurological) symptoms, including severe headache, especially if the onset is abrupt or if accompanied by other symptoms (such as a change in consciousness), in which case a brain hemorrhage may be a cause for concern.

A "transient ischemic attack" or "mini-stroke":

Stroke symptoms that appear and disappear quickly may indicate a "mini-stroke," or a transient ischemic attack (TIA). TIAs are serious medical events and require medical treatment; they are also the warning sign for future dangerous strokes.

It is important to know that stroke often goes unrecognized; people often wait to see if their symptoms improve and unknowingly put themselves in greater danger. However, because stroke can incapacitate or kill within minutes, doctors recommend treating a suspected stroke as a medical emergency and seeking immediate medical care.

If stroke is suspected, it should be communicated directly immediately. Call 911 and tell the dispatcher, "I think this is a stroke."

The most common symptoms of stroke can be remembered by the acronym "FAST":

F = Face: Is one side of the face drooping down?

A = Arm: Can the person raise both arms, or is one arm weak?

S = Speech: Is speech slurred or confusing?

T = Time: Time is critical!! Call 9-1-1 immediately!

How to Reduce Your Risk of Stroke:

• Control your blood pressure.
• Don't smoke.
• Eat a healthful diet that is low in sodium and fat.
• Have your cholesterol checked; if it is high follow your doctor's instructions on how to control it.
• Exercise regularly.
• Control diabetes.
• Be aware of your family's medical history of stroke.
• Report warning signs to your doctor as soon as possible.