How to Recognize a Stroke and What to Do Immediately
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly interrupted, either because a blood vessel is blocked or because it ruptures and bleeds. When brain cells lose their supply of oxygen and nutrients, they can quickly become damaged. This is why stroke treatment is so time-sensitive.
Stroke symptoms usually appear suddenly. A useful way to remember several important warning signs is BE-FAST: Balance problems, Eye or vision changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, and Speech difficulty signal that it is Time to get emergency medical help. Other symptoms can include sudden numbness, confusion, difficulty walking, or a severe unexplained headache.
One common mistake is waiting to see whether the symptoms improve. Some symptoms may disappear after a few minutes, but this does not mean the danger has passed. Temporary neurological symptoms can represent a transient ischemic attack, sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” and still require urgent medical assessment.
If you suspect a stroke, do not attempt to diagnose or treat it yourself. Call your local emergency medical service immediately. Note the time when the person was last known to be well, because this information may influence treatment decisions.
Modern stroke treatments can be remarkably effective for appropriately selected patients, but their success often depends on reaching specialized care quickly. When stroke is suspected, every minute truly matters.
Next: What happens when the stroke is caused by a large blood clot?
Medical disclaimer for the series: This content is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Anyone experiencing possible symptoms of stroke or another neurological emergency should seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
