Warning signs of stroke: Early detection saves lives

Common stroke symptoms include a drooping face, difficulty speaking, and facial numbness. At times, females have more subtle symptoms or additional symptoms. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain stops and brain cells begin to die. It can affect the entire body. People treated with a blood-clot-dissolving drug within 4.5 hours of symptoms have higher recovery chances without major disability. You may be reluctant to call emergency services if you are not sure whether someone is having a stroke. Read the blog to find out the warning signs of a stroke and stay prepared.

What is a stroke?

A stroke is a brain attack that occurs when blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off. This causes a lack of oxygen in brain tissue. When brain cells do not get oxygen, they tend to die. Hence, it is crucial to seek treatment at the earliest. A delay in treatment increases the risk of permanent brain damage, leading to death. 

What are the warning signs of a stroke in a man?

Stroke symptoms come on suddenly. Use the term ‘FAST’ to recognize common symptoms: 

F	Fact drooping: This can look like facial drooping, uneven smile or numbness.
A	Arm weakness: You can ask the person to raise the arms. If the arm drops down or is not steady, it can be an indicator or a stroke.
S	Speech difficulty: Ask the person to repeat something. Slurred speech indicates that the person is having a stroke.
T	Time to call 911: If someone is having a stroke, act quickly and call 911.

What are the other additional early warning signs of a stroke?

• Vision trouble in one or both eyes 
• Overall fatigue 
• Numbness in the limbs 
• Trouble walking 

If you feel any of these signs or see someone else, call 911 immediately. You do not need to wait to see all the signs of a stroke. 

What are the warning signs of a stroke in a woman?

Females who have a stroke may experience the following stroke symptoms: 

• General weakness 
• Vomiting 
• Nausea 
• Memory problems 
• Disorientation or confusion 

What are the risk factors?

Anyone can have a stroke at any age and at any time. There are certain things that can increase your chances of having a stroke. To protect yourself and your loved ones, you must understand the risks. 

Medical risk factors: 

• High blood pressure: This is the primary cause of stroke. It occurs when the pressure of the blood in your arteries and other blood vessels is too high. There are no symptoms of high blood pressure. Check your blood pressure, and if it is on the higher side, then change your lifestyle patterns. 
• High cholesterol: If we consume more cholesterol than our bodies can use, it can build up in the arteries and the brain. This can narrow down the arteries, leading to stroke. A blood test can tell your doctor if you have high levels of cholesterol. 
• Heart disease: Coronary artery disease can increase the risk of stroke. This is due to plaque buildup in the arteries. This can block the flow of oxygen to the brain.go though best cpr certification available 

Lifestyle risk factors: 

• Tobacco use: Smoking is a primary risk factor. 
• Physical activity: Not exercising can increase your risk of becoming overweight and developing high blood pressure. Go on a brisk walk or perform at least 30 minutes of exercise to decrease your risk. 
• Diet: Maintain a healthy diet by including more servings of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens. 

What to do in case of a stroke?

A stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. Prompt action can improve the condition and reduce the risk of damage. Here is what to do if you see the warning signs of a mini stroke: 

1. Call 911: Dial 911 as time is essential. So do not delay. 

2. Use the FAST method: Assess the person with the help of the FAST method to evaluate the stroke symptoms. 

• Face: Ask the person to smile and check if one side of the face droops. 
• Arms: Ask the patient to raise both arms. See, one arm drifts downward. 
• Speech: Repeat in a simple sentence. Listen to their speech. 
• Time: If you observe anything likely, call emergency services. 

3. Note the time: It is crucial to record the time when the symptoms appeared first. This helps medical professionals decide the right treatment.

4. Stay calm: Stay calm and comfortable. Reassure the patient that help is on the way and he will feel better soon. 

5. Monitor the symptoms: As emergency services are on the way, monitor the symptoms. Check if they are showing additional symptoms such as headaches, difficulty walking, or loss of balance. 

6. Do not give medication: Do not give any medication unless advised by emergency personnel. 

7. Prepare for medical help: When emergency services arrive, provide them with information about the symptoms. This will help them make swift decisions. 

Read more: How do you prevent a stroke?

You can prevent strokes by keeping medical conditions under control. A good place to start is to know the ABSc of heart health: 

• Aspirin: Aspirin can help lower your risk of stroke. 
• Blood pressure: Control your blood pressure. 
• Cholesterol: Control your cholesterol. 
• Smoking: Quit smoking or manage it. 

Conclusion 

Strokes can come on suddenly and progress rapidly. This may cause a permanent disability. Be equipped to recognize the symptoms of a stroke and act promptly. Call 911 and comfort the individual until emergency personnel arrive. Use the FAST method to recognize the symptoms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the warning signs of a stroke, your lifestyle and eating habits. Quit smoking, eat leafy greens, and exercise for at least 30 minutes to prevent the probability of smoking. 

Read more: 

CPR Ventilation Rate: The Essential Guide for All Ages
The Advantages Of Recertifying and Basic Life Support