Stroke: Don't Ignore These Warning Signs
Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS
Written By Greg McConnell on August 17, 2021
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An Attack on Your BrainStrokes are sometimes referred to as "brain attacks." The most common type of stroke happens when an embolus (an obstruction like a blood clot or fragmented cholesterol plaque) prevents fresh, oxygenated blood from getting to the brain. Nearby brain cells are denied oxygen and nutrients, so they begin to die.
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No. 1 Cause of DisabilityStroke is the number three killer in the United States, and it causes more serious long-term disabilities than any other disease. Because a stroke damages the brain, it's possible a person won't realize that he or she is having a stroke. So it could be imperative that someone else quickly recognizes the symptoms and calls 911. Do you know which warning signs to look for?
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Symptom: Confusion or Slurred SpeechSudden confusion or difficulty speaking. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is he or she able to do so without slurring words?
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Symptom: Difficulty SeeingSudden difficulty seeing in one or both eyes. It might be blurriness or the perception of a dark curtain obscuring a portion of the visual field.
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Symptom: Problems WalkingSudden problems with walking, dizziness, or loss of coordination.
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Symptom: Severe HeadacheSudden severe headache without an apparent cause.
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Call 911When someone is having a stroke, every minute counts. Ischemic stroke is the most common type, and it can be treated with aggressive clot-busting drug therapy. However, effective stroke treatment must begin within three hours of the stroke. So you should get to the hospital within 60 minutes in order to have time for testing and treatment. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, don't wait for the symptoms to get better or worse. Call 911 immediately.
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Act F.A.S.T.If you recognize the warning signs of stroke, you want to act FAST. This acronym might help you to remember what to do in such an emergency:
- Face – Check the face. Does one side droop?
- Arms – Check the arms. Can the person raise both arms or not?
- Speech – Check speech. Can the person speak normally?
- Time – If the person has any of these symptoms, then time is critical. Call 911 immediately.
Know the Warning Signs of a Stroke