Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke
No, not yet. Well, did you know that in the United States the third leading cause of death is a stroke. A stoke is also a leading cause of disability, with 15 to 30 percent of stroke survivors disabled permanently.
Often called a "brain attack" a stroke is brought on when the brain stops receiving blood. Brain cells quickly begin to die from lack of oxygen and parts of the brain become damaged.
These damages could lead to memory loss, problems moving, doing everyday activities and problems with speech. In some cases, complete disability with only the mind working.
If you are at risk or a stroke or know someone who it, it is extremely important to know and be able to recognize its signs. Many times those who are having a stroke may look confused and may not realize they are having a stroke. This is where it becomes important that their family and friends are able to recognize the signs as well.
When a stroke occurs, it happens fast and most people will have at least two symptoms. The five major signs of a stroke, according to the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes are:
Sudden weakness or a numbness of the face, arm or leg on one side.
Sudden trouble speaking or understanding what others are saying.
Sudden blurriness or loss of vision, mainly in one eye.
Sudden dizziness, problems walking, or loss of balance.
Sudden severe headache brought on for no reason.
A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or a mini-stroke, is another warning and should not be ignored. The symptoms are the same as with a stroke, but it only lasts a few minutes, maybe up to a day. People who have had a TIA, have a greater risk of having a stroke.
Knowing, recognizing and getting medical attention within 60 minutes can mean the difference between permanent disability and a healthy recovery. If one of the signs is recognizable, do not wait to see if you notice anymore, get on the phone and get help.
sources:
americanheart.org
strokecenter.org
4women.gov
familydoctor.org
Published by Jessica Rowe
My name is Jessica, I am 28 years old and have lived in northern California since I was an infant. I live with my amazing boyfriend Jessy, our almost 6 year old son year old son Ethan, our 6 month old son La... View profile
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