Learn to Recognize the Signs of a Stroke: May is National Stroke Awareness Month

 By James Chimenti, M.D., Chief of the Division of Neurosurgery at Somerset Medical Center

According to the CDC, strokes are the leading cause of serious long-term disability in the United States. Unfortunately, people usually do not respond fast enough to the signs and symptoms of a stroke. Early action is critical in not only surviving a stroke, but in achieving the best possible outcome after a stroke has occurred.  Deemed National Stroke Awareness Month, May is the perfect time to help raise awareness of the signs of a stroke and to fight its debilitating effects. It is important for people to be able to recognize the signs of a stroke in order to react quickly enough when there is minimal damage to the brain. A stroke occurs when the brain does not receive enough blood and oxygen to function properly, due to a potential blood clot or ruptured blood vessel. Damage can often be caused within minutes of the first physical sign. With the long-term impact strokes can have on your body’s function, it’s imperative to seek medical attention immediately upon noticing the following signs:

• Weakness or numbness – Experiencing sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of the body, is one of the most common and telling signs of a stroke.  The side of the brain where the blood clot or damaged blood vessel is located gets affected. Watch for drooping on one side of the face, if you suspect you or someone you know may be having a stroke.

• Severe headaches – Sudden, severe headaches with no obvious or identifiable cause, sometimes followed by rapid loss of consciousness, is another common sign of a stroke. A severe headache can be a sign that something serious is occurring within your body, and it is important to seek medical attention immediately if the cause is unknown.

• Inability to understand or speak – Suddenly finding yourself unable to speak or understand others is a common sign of a stroke.  People having a stroke may slur when speaking or be unable to form words or coherent sentences. This inability to communicate emphasizes the importance of being able to recognize the signs of a stroke for the safety of both yourself and others.

• Problems with vision– A stroke can cause blurred vision or loss of vision completely.  The inability to see or concentrate on something visually can then contribute to other symptoms including nausea and loss of balance.

• Limited ability to move – Sudden, unexpected loss of strength, sensation or coordination can be signs of a stroke. This can include dizziness, trouble walking, trouble moving your limbs, or lack of coordination. You should never wait to see if this resolves on its own.

Early stroke detection can be a matter of life or death. If you experience any of these signs or recognize them in someone else, call 911 immediately to seek medical attention. Patients who arrive at the emergency room and receive medical help within three hours of their first symptoms appearing often tend to be healthier following a stroke than those whose care is delayed.  When administered within the first three hours, certain treatment methods can save your life and significantly decrease any potential, lasting effects.  Please note that each individual may experience symptoms differently and all of the above signs may not occur with each stroke.  Don’t ignore any potential warning signs; take action immediately and always consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis.