Early Warning Signs of Stroke: Have you ever thought about what to do if someone suddenly shows signs of a stroke? Recognising a stroke early can make a huge difference in preventing long-term damage or even saving a life. A stroke is a medical emergency, and knowing what to look out for could prevent severe complications or even death. But how do you tell if someone is having a stroke?
Dr Sitla Prasad Pathak, Senior Consultant - Neurology, At Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, emphasises the importance of acting quickly. “A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention,” he says. Identifying the warning signs early can help save lives. Let’s explore what these signs are and how you can recognise them:
The FAST Method
When it comes to identifying a stroke, experts recommend remembering the word ‘FAST’. It stands for:
F - Face Drooping
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of a stroke is a drooping or numb feeling on one side of the face. Dr Sitla Prasad Pathak shared, "One side of the face may appear droopy or feel numb. Ask the person to smile; if their smile is uneven, it could be a sign of a stroke." The face may appear numb or less expressive on one side, and this happens suddenly.
A - Arm Weakness
Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm is another major sign. To test this, ask the person to raise both arms at the same time. If one arm drifts down or feels weak, it could be a warning sign. This loss of strength often happens on just one side of the body.
S - Speech Difficulty
The person may find it hard to say words clearly, or they may seem confused when trying to speak. They might also have trouble understanding others. This can happen suddenly and is often accompanied by other signs.
T - Time To Call For Help
Time is crucial when it comes to strokes. The moment you notice any of the signs above, call for emergency help immediately. Every minute counts, and getting medical attention right away can significantly reduce the chances of long-term damage or disability.
Other Stroke Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
While the FAST method covers the primary symptoms, there are additional warning signs that may indicate a stroke as shared by Dr Sitla Prasad Pathak. These include:
Sudden Numbness or Weakness: Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg especially on just one side of the body is a sign. This sudden loss of feeling or strength can happen without any warning.
Confusion or Trouble Understanding Speech: If the person seems confused or is unable to understand simple instructions, it may be a sign of a stroke. They may struggle to follow a conversation or respond appropriately to questions.
Vision Problems: Trouble seeing in one or both eyes is another red flag. This could include blurred vision or a sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes. It may occur with or without any other symptoms.
Dizziness or Loss of Balance: Feeling dizzy, losing balance, or having difficulty walking are common stroke symptoms. These may occur along with other signs and can make it challenging for the person to stand or move properly.
Severe Headache: A sudden and severe headache with no known cause can be another stroke warning sign. This headache is often described as the worst headache the person has ever experienced.
Why Immediate Action Matters
Getting medical help quickly can limit brain damage and increase the chances of a full recovery. Stroke treatment works best when it's given within a few hours of the first symptoms. This is known as the ‘Golden Window’, and the sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome for recovery.
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Treatment For A Stroke
Dr Sitla Prasad Pathak advises, “Some risk factors (such as age and genetics) cannot be controlled, lifestyle modifications can help lower the risk of stroke. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing blood pressure, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the chances of a stroke.”
Note: If you or someone around you experiences any of these symptoms, remember to seek immediate medical assistance.
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