If you think you might be having a stroke, don’t hesitate and ignore the suspicion. Call 911 and get to an emergency room.
Zach Egger, DO, Phelps Medical Group, urges all to know the signs of stroke. “If something suddenly seems off, this is the time to react. Time is critical.”
A sudden onset of blurred vision, slurred speech, or numbness or paralysis in the face, arm, or leg can be indications of a stroke.
According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States.
Many people experiencing these symptoms wait to seek help, but this can be a fatal mistake.
Immediate treatment may minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death. Stroke treatments and survival rates have improved greatly over the last decade.
Take preventive measures, know the symptoms and BE-FAST if you suspect a stroke.
Balance – Does the person have trouble walking or standing?
Eyes – Are there any changes to eyesight, such as blurry vision?
Face – Do the eyes or mouth appear to be drooping?
Arms – Does the person complain of arm weakness?
Speech – Does the person slur their speech or mix up words?
Time – If any of those signs are present, call 911.
As with any medical issue, prevention is key in avoiding a stroke. High blood pressure and cholesterol are two main risk factors. Engaging in regular physical exercise, quitting smoking, and cutting back on salty and/or fatty foods can make a big difference. Talk you your medical provider about a prevention plan.
Dr. Egger advises to not wait. It is better to have a false alarm than to delay any treatment. He added, “Trust your instincts… don’t wait and see if symptoms pass. Even if a patient isn’t sure he or she is having a stroke, it’s better to have a medical provider make that determination.”
