– an acute disruption of cerebral blood flow – is as life-threatening as a heart attack. In both cases, blood flow is abruptly halted, depriving vital tissues of oxygen and nutrients.
Doctors distinguish between two main types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic. In the case of an ischemic stroke, blood flow to the brain is blocked, usually by a clot in a blood vessel. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die, which can lead to loss of motor functions, speech, memory, and even death.
In the case of a hemorrhagic stroke, a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, typically due to high , which weakens the walls of blood vessels and increases the likelihood of rupture.
A person suspected of having a stroke should be taken to a stroke unit by emergency services. The sooner, the better. The success of combating this life-threatening condition depends on the promptness of medical intervention, asserts Siobhan McLernon, head of the Department of Aging, Acute, and Chronic Diseases at London South Bank University.
She also reported that the number of strokes among individuals under 55 is steadily increasing. This refers to middle-aged individuals (ages 45-59), according to the World Health Organization’s classification.
How to Recognize Stroke Symptoms
Dr. McLernon explained that for the past 20 years, the FAST acronym has been a quick screening tool for potential strokes. More specifically, it highlights key factors to pay attention to: face, arm, speech, time. This tool helps identify signs of a possible stroke and signals the need for immediate medical assistance.
At some point, a few more letters were added to the acronym to include additional important factors: loss of balance and vision. Thus, the acronym expanded to Be Fast. So, what does it mean?
B – balance and coordination problems.
E – eyes. Sudden blurriness, loss of vision in one or both eyes, double vision, or difficulty focusing.
F – face. Weakness or asymmetry in facial features, drooping of one eye or corner of the mouth.
A – arm. Weakness or numbness in an arm (or leg), often on one side.
S – speech. Slurred speech or difficulty finding words.
T – time to call emergency services. It’s important to note when symptoms began, as this will help doctors determine the treatment plan.
Other Warning Signs
Stroke symptoms typically develop suddenly and can vary among individuals.
In , strokes are diagnosed less frequently, and their symptoms may differ from those in men. For instance, unexpected fatigue, confusion, nausea, fainting, or general have been reported, according to Science Alert.
Other possible signs for both genders include severe , vomiting, difficulty swallowing, sudden agitation, seizures, or sudden memory loss. In some cases, a person may faint, Dr. McLernon notes.
Sometimes, stroke symptoms may only last a few minutes or hours, completely disappearing within a day. This could indicate a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke. The difference between a TIA and a “full-blown” stroke is that the blockage in the former resolves on its own – without causing irreversible brain damage. However, a TIA is a serious warning sign that a severe stroke may occur soon.
Telemedicine has become an important tool for quickly diagnosing strokes. Paramedics can now consult with clinic specialists about treatment in real-time while en route to the hospital.
As Dr. McLernon pointed out, strokes occur without warning, and rapid diagnosis and immediate medical assistance are crucial for survival.
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