Advice

Spotting the Signs of Someone Having a Stroke: A Guide by Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy

29 Jun 2023 | Read time: 03 mins

 Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke is crucial, as prompt medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes. At Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, we are committed to promoting health and well-being in our community. In this blog, we will guide you on how to spot the signs of someone having a stroke, empowering you to take swift action and potentially save a life.

Understanding Stroke: A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, either due to a blood clot blocking a blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel bursts (hemorrhagic stroke). In both cases, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, leading to damage and potential long-term disabilities if not treated promptly.

Spotting the Signs: The acronym FAST can help you remember the common signs of a stroke

Face drooping:

Ask the person to smile. Is one side of their face drooping or numb? Unevenness in facial features can indicate a stroke.

Arm weakness:

Request the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward or feel weak? Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm is a warning sign.

Speech difficulty:

Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or incomprehensible? Difficulty speaking or understanding words is a red flag.

Time to call emergency services:

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s crucial to call emergency services immediately. Time is of the essence when dealing with a stroke, as early treatment can minimize brain damage and enhance the chances of recovery.

Additional Symptoms: In addition to the FAST signs, it's essential to be aware of other symptoms that may indicate a stroke:

  • Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
  • Sudden confusion, trouble understanding or speaking.
  • Sudden vision problems, such as blurred or double vision.
  • Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.
  • Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, including the face, arm, or leg.

Remember, any sudden onset of these symptoms should not be ignored and should be treated as a medical emergency.

What to Do if You Suspect a Stroke: If you suspect someone is having a stroke, take the following steps:

  1. Call emergency services immediately: Dial your local emergency number to ensure the person receives urgent medical attention.
  2. Note the time: Make a mental note or write down the time when the symptoms first appeared. This information will assist medical professionals in determining the appropriate treatment.
  3. Do not delay: It’s important not to wait for symptoms to resolve on their own or underestimate their severity. Every minute counts when it comes to stroke, so don’t hesitate to seek help.
  4. Stay with the person: Provide reassurance and support while waiting for medical help to arrive. Keep the person calm and comfortable.

 

Conclusion: Recognizing the signs of a stroke and taking immediate action can save lives and prevent long-term disabilities. By remembering the FAST acronym and being aware of additional symptoms, you can play a vital role in helping someone receive timely medical care. At Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, we encourage you to share this knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues, as it could make all the difference in an emergency situation. Remember, swift action can change outcomes, so be vigilant and prioritize the well-being of those around you.

Vedrana
administrator