Stroke: CDC outlines the main signs and how to respond
“A stroke occurs when your brain becomes deprived of oxygen — either because of a clot which stops blood flow, or a bleed,” Alexis Kolodziej said. “As soon as your brain loses oxygen, your cells start to die and you lose the functioning of whatever it is that this area of your brain was responsible for.” Kolodziej stated that “the brain is the body’s control centre”, and that “each stroke looks different depending on where it is and its size”.
The health expert told the Sun on Sunday Health: “There are a wide range of symptoms and a stroke can be difficult to diagnose.”
There are eight, however, that people are best knowing about, according to The Stroke Association.
One of the most telling signs of a stroke is when there is a noticeable drooping on one side of the face – especially if it comes on suddenly.
Another possible indication of a lack of oxygen to the brain cells is the inability to raise both arms and to keep them there.
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A stroke can also cause somebody to slur their speech or to suddenly find it difficult to find the right words.
These three signs of stroke can best be remembered with the FAST test.
F- facial weakness: can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
A – arm weakness: can the person raise both arms?
S – speech problems: can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
T – time to call 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs.
There is another sign to be wary of – a sudden onset of blurred, double vision, or losing vision in one (or both) eyes.
Severe and sudden memory loss, or confusion, could also be an indication of a stroke.
Brain damage caused by a stroke might possibly lead to losing your balance, an onset of dizziness or vertigo, and falling over.
A stroke could also make it difficult to swallow, although it’s unlikely to be a stroke if this is the only symptom of the condition.
Be aware if there is an instant loss of sensation down one side of the body.
Signs of a stroke
- Facial drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech problems
- Blurred vision
- Sudden memory loss
- Losing balance
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of sensation on one side of the body.
A stroke is a medical emergency that requires a prompt call to the emergency services.
The NHS cautions: “The injury to the brain caused by a stroke can lead to widespread and long-lasting problems.
“Although some people may recover quickly, many people who have a stroke need long-term support to help them regain as much independence as possible.”
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