Stroke Symptoms & How To Act During A Stroke Emergency

A stroke is a medical emergency where blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die rapidly. The quicker it’s recognised and treated, the better the chances are for recovery and reducing the long-term effects. The key to early intervention lies in knowing the symptoms and acting within what’s known as the “golden hour"—the crucial first hour after symptoms start. This window of time is essential because proper medical care during this period can minimise brain damage and improve the chance of a full recovery.

Recognising Stroke Symptoms With BE FAST

A stroke can happen suddenly, so knowing its signs and acting immediately is important. The acronym BE FAST is a guide for remembering the symptoms of a stroke:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination can be a sign of a stroke. If someone suddenly has trouble standing or keeping their balance, this could be a sign.
• Eyes: Vision changes are common in strokes. If someone suddenly has blurry vision, double vision, or even vision loss in one or both eyes, this can be a stroke symptom.
• Face: One side of the face may droop or become numb. Ask the person to smile; if one side of their smile doesn’t move or looks uneven, it could be a stroke.
• Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm is another warning sign. Ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm starts to drop or feels significantly weaker, this might be a stroke symptom.
• Speech: Slurred or strange speech can be a clear indicator. If someone’s words are jumbled, hard to understand, or they can’t speak at all, take it seriously.
• Time: Time is of the essence! If you notice any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately. The faster you act, the better the chance of effective treatment.

Read More: When Seconds Count: The Importance of Stroke Awareness

Why The “Golden Hour” Matters

When it comes to treating a stroke, every minute matters. Strokes occur due to a disruption of blood flow to the brain. The longer that part of the brain goes without oxygen and nutrients, the greater the damage. That’s why acting within the first hour, known as the “golden hour,” can make a life-saving difference.

Timely treatment during the golden hour allows doctors to:

• Administer Clot-Busting Drugs: In ischemic strokes, where a blood clot blocks blood flow, doctors can use clot-busting drugs (such as tissue plasminogen activator or tPA) to dissolve the clot. These drugs are most effective within the first few hours after symptoms begin, with the best results within the golden hour.
• Perform Surgical Intervention: In some cases, a procedure called thrombectomy may be needed to physically remove a clot from the brain’s blood vessels. Acting within the golden hour can increase the chances of successful intervention.
• Reduce the Risk of Complications: Acting quickly also lowers the risk of stroke-related complications, like brain swelling or bleeding, which can worsen outcomes and lead to a longer, more difficult recovery.

How To Act During A Stroke Emergency

If you suspect a stroke, it’s essential to act fast:

• Call Emergency Services: Dial emergency services immediately. Explain that you suspect a stroke so they can dispatch the right resources.
• Stay Calm and Reassure the Person: Stroke symptoms can be frightening. Help keep the person calm, and let them know that help is on the way.
• Take Note of the Time: Knowing when symptoms started is helpful for doctors, as some treatments are time-sensitive.
• Avoid Giving Food or Drink: Don’t let the person eat or drink, as it can pose a choking risk.
• Monitor Symptoms: Monitor the person’s symptoms and report any changes to the emergency responders.

Life After A Stroke

The outcomes can be much more favourable for those who receive treatment immediately. However, recovery may still involve physical therapy, speech therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation, depending on the areas of the brain affected and the severity of the stroke. Patience and a good support system are crucial during recovery, as healing can take time. It’s also essential to prioritise a lifestyle that reduces the risk of a future stroke by managing blood pressure, eating healthily, exercising, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can young people have a stroke, or is it just older adults?

While strokes are more common in older adults, they can happen at any age. Younger individuals with certain risk factors, like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of stroke, can also experience strokes.

What are the main types of stroke, and do they have different symptoms?

There are two primary types: ischemic (caused by a clot) and hemorrhagic (caused by bleeding). Both can present similar symptoms, but hemorrhagic strokes may also cause sudden, severe headaches and nausea.

Are there any warning signs before a stroke occurs?

Sometimes, people experience a “mini-stroke” or transient ischemic attack (TIA), which has stroke-like symptoms that resolve quickly. These can be a warning of a larger stroke and should always be taken seriously.

What can I do to prevent a stroke if I have a family history of it?

While you can’t change your genetics, you can reduce risk by managing blood pressure, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol.

How long does recovery from a stroke usually take?

Recovery varies widely, depending on factors like the stroke’s severity and the affected brain area. Some people recover within weeks, while others may need months or years of therapy and support.