Signs of Stroke – S.O.S. – simplified to three easy-to-remember questions that can be asked:
Smile (look for one-sided facial weakness)
Raise both arms (look for them to be raised at the same height)
Speak a simple sentence (listen for slurring)
If someone cannot do even one of these tasks, the person may be having a stroke. Call 9-1-1 immediately – minutes can make the difference. Stroke is a leading cause of death and serious long-term disability.
A stroke is the sudden onset of damage to the brain, usually due to lack of oxygen in the brain. Knowing the signs of a stroke is critical, as the sooner a stroke victim reaches the hospital, the more likely they are to fully recover. Knowing the signs can save a life.[[Category:[[Category:
Steps
Note the most common signs of a stroke:
Weakness in part of the body:
One side of body (arm and leg) - hemiparesis/hemiplegia
One part of body (arm, face)
Numbness in part of the body
Difficulty with vision
Difficulty with Speech:
Slurring Speech
Words don't make sense
Loss of balance or difficulty walking
Severe, disabling headache
An easy way to remember is FAST:
F-face, the smile or facial muscles will not tighten properly, also a 'drooping smile'
A-arms, waving and flailing is common
S-sight, letters and words become incomprehensible and reading is difficult
T-time, which you shouldn't waste if you notice these signs
Tips
Time is brain! The longer you wait to call 911, the less likely that patient may recover. Often patients "don't feel well" and think they will get better in the morning or if they take a break. If you note any of the symptoms above, tell the person you are concerned that they may be having a stroke and call 911 as soon as possible!
Often altered states are self induced (alcohol, drugs), and may mimic strokes. Use your judgement, and call 911 if in doubt.
Does the person have a personal or family history of aneurysms? These are inflated blood vessels, usually in the brain. If an aneurysm is in the brain, and it ruptures, the resulting medical emergency usually leads to a stroke.
Warnings
Stay with person until help arrives.
Prevent person from exerting themselves.
Have the person lie down, keep them comfortable.
Sources and Citations
www.stroke.org
www.asitn.org
www.strokeassociation.org
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