Stroke: Signs & Symptoms

A stroke is the interruption of blood flow to the brain. It cuts off oxygen and nutrients that the brain needs to function, causing brain cells to die. There are two common types:

• Ischemic: This is the most common type. It is caused by a blood clot in a vessel or artery in the brain.

• Hemorrhagic: This type accounts for about 20% patients who are affected. It is caused by a broken blood vessel in the brain.

Either one can leave its victim paralyzed, and it can cause mental and emotional problems. It can also impair speech and cause pain after the immediate danger is over. And if medical treatment is not obtained quickly, it can result in death.

Warning Signs

Knowing the warning signs could save your life, or the life of someone close to you. If you have these symptoms, or you are around someone else who does, immediate medical attention is imperative:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arms or legs - This typically occurs on only one side of the body, but it could be on both sides.

• Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding others

• Suddenly impaired vision, in one or both eyes

• Dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, or trouble walking

• A sudden, severe, and inexplicable headache

All of these symptoms usually occur suddenly. They may also be accompanied in some cases by nausea or vomiting, stiff neck, seizure or unconsciousness. Symptoms also tend to get progressively worse, but in some cases they might seem to go away.

Every Minute Counts

Time is of the essence. Getting medical attention as quickly as possible can greatly reduce their risk of death or disability. They should see a doctor within one hour in order to be evaluated and get treatment started.

Ischemic patients can receive clot-dissolving drugs, but they must be administered within three hours of the onset of the stroke. Hemorrhagic patients are more complicated to treat, but getting them to the hospital quickly can greatly increase his chances of survival and reduce the incidence of disability.

Risk Factors

Some people are more likely to have a stroke than others. Some of the risk factors include:

• High blood pressure

• Heart problems

• Tobacco use

• Diabetes

• High cholesterol

Quitting smoking and keeping health problems under control can greatly reduce the likelihood this may occur. But it is still important to know the warning signs. Getting medical attention right away is crucial to a patient's health.

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