Signs & Symptoms of Stroke Awareness:
Balance Problems
Attendant of the patient need to ask is the person having trouble staying coordinated or balanced? Do they feel dizzy? Are they stumbling as they walk?
Eyesight issues
Does the person have blurry or blackened vision? Are they seeing double or having other eyesight Problems?
Face drooping
One side of the face is drooping or numb. When the person smiles, the smile is uneven.
Arm weakness
One arm is weak or numb. When the person lifts both arms at the same time, one arm may drift downward.
Speech difficulty
You may see slurred speech or difficulty speaking. The person can’t repeat a simple sentence correctly when asked.
Time to call 911
If someone shows any of these symptoms, call 911 right away. Call even if the symptom goes away. Make note of the time the symptoms first appeared.
Importance Of Recognizing Stroke Symptoms Early
When stroke is detected, we need to first refer the patient immediately to a nearest stroke ready centre. An acute stroke-ready hospital (ASRH) is a hospital or emergency centre with a dedicated stroke focused program. Nobody should administer any medication related to stroke with-out a stroke imaging (CT scan or MRI) and without interpretation of the same by the concerned emergency team/ stroke team. Any medication without knowing the nature / type of stroke may cause deterioration of the patient or may interfere with further treatment plan.
How To Act Fast In Case Of A Stroke Emergency
Remain Calm
Stay calm and monitor the person’s condition to prevent them from falling or being otherwise injured. Assess their level of consciousness, whether they are breathing normally or not.
Put Them In A Comfortable Position
Gently place the person in a comfortable position. Ideally, put them on their side with the head and shoulders slightly raised. Cover the person to reduce heat loss, and try not to move them once positioned.
Check The Airways
Check if the airways are clear. Look for any object or substance (e.g. vomiting) that causes obstruction or hinders the person’s breathing. When this happens, place them in a recovery position and begin to administer CPR.
Make Notes
It is important to write down the timing of symptoms and other relevant details as precisely as possible. The first responder or the doctor will need to know this information to decide the best course of treatment for the victim.