People should be aware of the signs of a possible stroke so that they can act as quickly as possible. Be aware of these common symptoms in men and women, AND also be aware that there are special signs of stroke that usually occur only in women.
Common signs of stroke in men and women:
- Sudden feeling of numbness in the face, arm or leg, especially if it is on one side of the body.
- Being suddenly confused, having trouble talking or understanding what is being said.
- Sudden difficulty seeing from either or both eyes.
- Sudden difficulty in walking, or a loss of balance or coordination.
- A sudden severe headache with no obvious cause.
The signs of stroke that women normally only report:
- Sudden pain in the face or limb
- Sudden case of hiccups
- A sudden feeling of strong nausea
- Sudden general weakness all over the body
- Sudden chest pain
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations that occur suddenly
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is very important to call 911 right away. Every minute is very critical for stroke patients. If you act fast, you can often reduce the effects of the stroke. The most effective treatments for a stroke are available only if the stroke is quickly recognized and diagnosed within three hours. In fact, stroke patients often are not eligible for treatments for stroke if they come to the hospital after this three hour window has passed.
If You Think Someone Is Having a Stroke
Try this simple test on him or her:
- F – Face – Ask him to smile. Is one side of the face drooping?
- A – Arms – Ask him to raise both arms. Is one of the arms drifting downward?
- S – Speech – Ask him to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred?
- T – Time – If you see any of these signs, call 911 right now.
Note that you should write down the time that any of these symptoms first appear. If it is given within three hours of the first sign of a stroke, there is a clot buster drug approved by FDA that can reduce long term damage from common types of stroke.
You should learn these stroke symptoms well and be able to recognize them in yourself and others. By doing so, you can ensure that the damage from a stroke is minimized.
Stroke Products To Make Life Easier
Even if you or a loved one has a stroke, there are many helpful supplies that make living with a stroke a much easier process. For instance, this Leg Lifter is very useful for lifting a weak or casted leg onto the bed or for repositioning. Or, the EZ Access Transitions Modular Mats Set provides you with a slip resistant surface for doorway entrances. Also, the Recliner Riser allows the stroke patient to more easily get in and out of a seated position.
