The Early Signs of Stroke
By Sara Butler
As you get older, your risk of stroke increases. According to the American Stroke Association, for every decade of life after 55, your risk of stroke doubles. It's important to be aware of the signs of stroke as you get older but also understand that stroke can really strike at any age. Here are the early signs of a stroke you should be on the lookout for so you can get treatment as soon as possible to save your life.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that supplies the brain with oxygenated blood is blocked. This blockage can cause the vessel to burst, cutting off oxygen from the part of the brain supplied by the vessel.
Before a major stroke, people often experience temporary blockages called transient ischemic attacks. They are basically mini-strokes and their symptoms are similar to major strokes. This is why it's so important to take any sign of a stroke seriously even if you didn't end up having a major stroke.
The Early Warning Signs
Recognizing the early warning signs that you're having a stroke are vital. Luckily, they're easy to identify and commit to memory.
The acronym F.A.S.T. is what you can use to identify that you may be having a stroke:
- Face drooping - If you notice one side of your face is numb or dropping as if you've been to the dentist and gotten some Novocain, then you may be having a stroke.
- Arm weakness - You may feel as if one arm is weaker than the other. If you attempt to raise both arms, then one will drift down.
- Speech difficulty - If you experience trouble speaking with slurred speech or words that are hard to understand, then it could be a stroke.
- Time to call for help - If any of the above symptoms are present, then it's time to call 911 and get to an emergency room as quickly as possible.
Other Warning Signs
There are a few other warning signs of stroke to pay attention to, such as:
- Confusion
- Numbness or weakness on just one side of the body
- Sudden but severe headache
- Dizziness
- Trouble seeing out of one or both eyes
Any of these symptoms requires medical help as soon as possible!
Remember, the best chance you have to live through and recover from a stroke is to get help as soon as you notice the first signs. Don't ignore what your body is trying to tell you. If you suspect a stroke, get to the emergency room as fast as you can!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Woodland Hills, Calif.