Q: What are signs that someone is having a stroke?
A: It is vital for people to be aware of stroke symptoms so they can react quickly to get medical attention. I recently spoke with a 77-year-old woman, Angela, who had a minor stroke. She was unaware of her symptoms and delayed medical care for several days.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting the oxygen it needs. It can cause speech difficulties, cognitive impairment, loss of muscle function, and problems with vision or balance. The form and level of difficulties caused are related to the type of stroke and the severity of the stroke.
Angela explained that she knew something was off. She felt weakness on one side, but when she smiled, her face was symmetrical. She did not have slurred speech, and these were the main symptoms she thought of for a stroke. She assumed she was just not feeling well and rested. Suddenly, she tried to write a card and realized that her handwriting looked like scribbled lines. That is when she called her doctor and was instructed to call an ambulance.
They did both an MRI and a CT scan at the hospital and found evidence of a minor stroke. Thankfully, it was small, and her residual symptoms of weakness in one leg and one hand are minor. She is starting physical and occupational therapy to improve her mobility.
The doctor explained that having a history of a stroke increases your chances of having a future stroke. They will put her on medications to reduce that risk. But she also made sure to ask what symptoms to look for in case she does have another stroke.
Her doctor taught her the acronym: BE FAST. The B stands for balance. She had been having balance issues, and that was a sign. The E stands for eyes. He explained that you may lose part of your vision and not be able to see everything in front of you. The F stands for face. Look for any facial drooping or asymmetry. The A stands for arm or leg weakness. The S stands for speech changes, including slurred speech. And the T stands for time. If you experience these symptoms, get to the hospital immediately and call 911 for assistance.
Once you get to the hospital and they diagnose a stroke, the treatment will work to restore the blood flow to the brain and to create a plan to reduce the risk of future damage. Treatment may include medications, surgical procedures, and rehabilitation such as physical and occupational therapy.
A positive recovery will be based on the severity of the stroke and how quickly you are treated for the stroke. In Angelea’s case, she didn’t seek medical treatment promptly because she ignored her symptoms for a few days. However, the stroke severity was minor, so her prognosis is very positive. In fact, she says that even if the therapies do not increase her abilities, she is currently functioning independently and comfortably.
Your risk of stroke increases with age. While there are other risk factors that you can work to control, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, and smoking, some are out of your control, including age and family history of stroke.
Therefore, no one is immune to the risk. It helps to educate yourself on the warning signs and be proactive if you notice any in yourself or someone you know.
Time is of the essence. If you notice any signs, seek help immediately. Acting fast may make all the difference in your recovery.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
