Stroke: what are the symptoms and how to prevent them
The first moments after the onset of stroke symptoms are critical.
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A stroke often leaves irreversible consequences, and sometimes even leads to death. However, many, not realizing what is happening to them, sometimes wait for several hours after the first symptoms appear before seeking medical advice. Moreover, it is the first moments after their appearance that are decisive.
What is a stroke
A stroke is a disruption of blood flow in the brain or a rupture of a cerebral blood vessel. Stroke leads to the death of oxygen-deprived cells or damages them. This is due to the fact that brain cells need a constant supply of oxygen and glucose. Interrupting blood flow for just a few minutes can cause permanent damage.
Some people recover completely from a stroke, while others have more or less serious consequences, depending on the part of the brain affected and the timing of the medical intervention.
Types of stroke
There are different types of stroke. All of them should be taken seriously and in any case they require prompt intervention.
Ischemic stroke: When a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain. Then part of the brain stops receiving blood flow.
Hemorrhagic stroke: When an artery in the brain ruptures. The blood then leaks into the brain tissue. These ruptures occur when arteries become brittle over the years, also due to high blood pressure.
Transient ischemic attack (TIA): When a small clot temporarily blocks an artery. Observed symptoms last less than an hour, and sometimes only a few minutes. However, even if the symptoms pass quickly, you should call an ambulance. A TIA, also called a mini-stroke, is indeed temporary, but it is a serious warning. A more serious stroke may be inevitable.
A stroke has one feature: its warning signs are completely absent. However, people who have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA), people with heart disease (an abnormality, heart failure, or arrhythmia), diabetes, migraine, sleep apnea, high cholesterol (high cholesterol), or high blood pressure are at greater risk.
Stroke Symptoms
There are many symptoms of a stroke. Here's what to look out for;
- dizziness;
- sudden loss of balance;
- numbness and sagging of a part of the face, arm, leg or part of the body;
- confusion;
- Difficulties with self-expression or understanding;
- sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one eye;
- sudden severe headache, sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
What to do if you suspect a stroke
If you are not an experienced first aid professional, it will be difficult for you to help a stroke survivor. However, you can ask him to smile, raise both hands, or say a very simple phrase. If the person is unable to do this, help them sit up or lie down and move them to a safe lateral position. Call emergency medical services immediately. the faster the intervention, the less the consequences. While waiting for help, keep talking to the person to calm them down.