Every 40 seconds, a person in the United States suffers a stroke. While strokes can affect younger adults, the most affected are the older population. In fact, nearly 75 percent of strokes occur in people who are 65 and older. It is important to receive immediate medical attention if you or a loved one suffers a stroke. In this post, we will discuss the stroke signs and symptoms for your awareness.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked, thus preventing the brain from receiving oxygen and nutrients from the blood. A stroke can cause lasting damage, long-term disability, or even death; however they are about 80 percent preventable.
Causes
There are two different types of strokes that can occur. An ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke. It occurs when a blood clot blocks the blood flow. This type of stroke is caused by narrowed arteries. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel within the brain bursts. High blood pressure is an example of a condition that can cause this type of stroke. There is also what’s known as a TIA or mini stroke which can be a warning sign of a future stroke.
Symptoms
A quick way to identify stroke symptoms is to use the FAST acronym.
F- Face Drooping
Check to see if one side of the person’s face is drooping by asking them to smile.
A- Arm Weakness
Ask the person to raise both arms and see which one shows signs of weakness.
S- Speech Difficulty
Listen to hear is the person’s words sound slurred by asking them to repeat a simple phrase
T- Time to call 9-1-1
The more time that goes by with a stroke being untreated, the more brain cells die, which increases the chance for long term disability or even death. Call 911 immediately.
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