As our population ages, the healthcare community is placing more attention on conditions like strokes. There are two types of strokes: hemorrhagic (bleeding in the brain) and ischemic (blockage in the brain). Ischemic strokes are the most common ones, usually caused by blood clots that block the flow of blood to parts of the brain. It’s important that the general public be aware of what strokes are, how to reduce their risk of having a stroke, and how to identify one.
There have been several public awareness campaigns to help educate people about what to watch for if someone is having a stroke. And these PSAs are making a difference. Many people have now heard of the acronym FAST, and how it helps you recognize the warning signs of a stroke:
- Face: One side droop when smiling?
- Arms: Arm drift downward when raised?
- Speech: Words slurred?
- Time: Call 911 fast if answered yes to any of these questions.
But, these are not the only indicators of a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack, or mini-stroke). According to the Director of the Comprehensive Stroke Care Center at NYI Langone Medical Center, Dr. Koto Ishida, “It’s difficult to know all the symptoms of stroke, because there are at least 30 possible symptoms and they’re not all specific to stroke.” And many signs can be missed because they are so subtle.
One of these symptoms, if recognized, can allow for quicker medical intervention. It is a sudden change in vision, especially if the change is noted in only one eye. This can occur if blood flow to the eye is blocked, indicating an impending stroke. It’s been described as looking through a window shade, or as viewing a photographic negative.
If stroke symptoms are noticed or suspected, remember that time is of the essence, and getting to a hospital’s ER immediately can allow for the greatest chance for recovery. There is a treatment for ischemic strokes, a so-called “clot buster,” but it must be given within a specific window of time after the first signs of a stroke. This is why getting help quickly is vital.
As leaders in Dallas home care, Heaven at Home Senior Care has skilled caregivers who are trained to spot signs of a stroke and how to call for help in a timely manner. If your loved one has had a stroke, it can be life changing for both your loved one and your family. You may be faced with an upheaval if your loved one is left with serious long-lasting effects, such as paralysis, or if she needs more help around the house than before. If you need help after your loved one has had a stroke, our Dallas home care providers are trained in stroke care, and they can also provide other services, such as meal preparation, transportation, and companionship.
Call us today to see how we can help you: 866-381-0500.