Stroke indicators and the race against time
Ever since I read Dr. Jill Boldt Taylors’s book “My Stroke of Insight,” I’ve become more interested, fascinated even, about strokes. Mainly because this is often an event that gives us several clues before it happens. Dr. Taylor, a Harvard-trained neuroanatomist, also wrote a second book, “Whole Brain Living” which contains first-person experience and expertise.
It is essential to know what signs of stroke to look for to get help as soon as possible.
A stroke can be ischemic or hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes, which account for more than 75% of all cases, are caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain, typically due to a blood clot or a buildup of fatty deposits. These can be further classified as thrombotic strokes originating from clots forming within brain arteries, or embolic strokes, which occur when clots travel from elsewhere in the body, often the heart.
Hemorrhagic strokes, though less common, are often more severe. They result from a ruptured blood vessel that causes bleeding either directly into brain tissue or in the space around the brain, frequently due to an aneurysm.
The good news is that in recent years, stats show fewer Americans dying of stroke. This is likely due to a combination of more information getting out to the public and new technologies in brain surgery.
According to Dr. James McKenney of New Hanover Regional Medical Center, the key indicators of stroke are best remembered using the acronym F.A.S.T.:
F=Facial droop. Ask person to smile, check for asymmetry
A=Arms. Ask person to hold out their arms, look for asymmetry).
S=Speech. Ask person to speak and look for slurring or inability to speak.
T=Time. Time to call 911 if ANY stroke signs are present.
There may also be visual problems in one or both eyes, difficulty walking as well as severe headache that could be signaling a stroke.
Strokes are a race against time. There is general agreement among specialists that getting medical treatment within a 3-4 hour window after first symptoms is best. A longer length of time will result in higher percentage of brain damage.
It is a race against time but it can be done. If you notice any of the above symptoms, call 911. You, and the medical team, would rather be safe and find nothing wrong than sorry you didn’t act in time and suffer disability and possibly death.
If you’re with someone you suspect is having a stroke, watch the person carefully while waiting for emergency assistance.
A former Bluffton resident, Glenda finds stories everywhere and writes about nature, travel, healthy living and books.
