Recognizing Signs of a Stroke
Every forty seconds, someone in the United States suffers from a stroke. This means there are nearly 800,000 people who have a stroke each year. Fortunately, as many as 80% of strokes are preventable, so education can go a long way in lowering those numbers. Learn how to spot the signs of a stroke and help reduce the occurrence of this devastating medical concern.
A stroke happens when your brain is not getting the blood it needs. Your brain cells are damaged within minutes because your brain cannot get oxygen. When treating a stroke, minutes matter. Do not wait to call a doctor or drive to a hospital. Instead, call 911, and ambulance professionals will assist immediately and determine the necessary treatment. Immediate treatment will help to reduce the chances of brain damage, disability, or even death.
While some strokes happen gradually, you are more likely to have sudden symptoms such as:
Sudden numbness or weakness in your face, arm, or leg, typically on one side
Sudden confusion or trouble understanding language
Difficulty speaking
Decreased or blurred vision in one or both eyes
Balance issues or loss of coordination
Severe headache with no known cause
The medical community has developed the acronym F.A.S.T. to help people recognize and react when they are in the presence of someone having a stroke. Remembering these four quick steps can help save a life:
F = Face Drooping: Is the face drooping? Ask the person to smile. Is the smile uneven? That’s a sign of weakness or numbness in the face.
A = Arm Weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Can they lift one arm higher than the other? That signals weakness on one side of their body.
S = Speech Difficulty: Is the person’s speech slurred? Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Did their speech sound strange? Could they repeat the phrase? Trouble speaking is a tell-tale sign of stroke.
T = Time to call 911: If the person failed any part of the test, note the time and get help. Call 9-1-1 immediately. Let them know what time you gave this test to estimate the length of the stroke.
Remembering these simple steps and the warning signs of strokes can help save lives! Rogers Pharmacy is here to help you with all of your health care needs. Rogers Pharmacy will provide you with both superior products and knowledgeable staff. Rediscover the confidence that comes with independence and venture to work, play, school, or wherever your imagination takes you. With the right products, nothing will slow you down! We’ll provide you with the latest and best in-home healthcare to make your life more enjoyable.
Stop by and see us at 125 East South Avenue in Maryville, or give us a call at 660-562-2300.
Sources:
https://www.iowaclinic.com/primary-care/how-to-spot-a-stroke-5-sure-signs-and-4-lifesaving-letters/
https://www.heart.org/idc/groups/heart-public/@wcm/@fdr/documents/downloadable/ucm_467905.pdf
https://www.webmd.com/stroke/guide/signs-of-stroke
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