One may suffer from a stroke when the blood supply to the part of one’s brain is reduced or interrupted; this, in turn, deprives your brain of oxygen and nutrients. Thus, brain cells die within a matter of minutes. Various types of stroke are ischemic stroke which occurs when a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain is obstructed. Likewise, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs when weakened blood vessel ruptures and the commonest cause of it is uncontrolled blood pressure. Moreover, stroke is a medical emergency, and timely and prompt treatment is needed to save one’s life. This is so because early action can help minimize brain damage.

All you need to know about the symptoms of a stroke

Symptoms of stroke are difficulty in walking. One may encounter a sudden loss of balance or feel dizzy while walking. One may get a constant headache which will be accompanied by vomiting and dizziness. Paralysis and facial numbness can also be experienced. You may become weak, and will not be able to speak or understand anything. Likewise, one may also encounter vision problems. You may have a sudden blurred vision or see a double or one-sided loss of vision. Once you notice the symptoms then you must immediately seek treatment.

This is how you can identify stroke on time

You should remember FAST which will help in recognizing the symptoms of a stroke

F (Facial drooping): If your loved one is suffering from a stroke then ask him/her to smile and see whether one side of the face is drooping. If there is facial numbness or the smile appears uneven, then it can be a stroke.

An (Arm weakness): If the person is suspected of stroke, then he must raise both arms. Check if there is weakness or numbness on one side. Also, see whether one arm is drifting downwards.

S (Speech difficulty): If someone has speech irregularity like slurred speech or inability to complete a sentence then it can be a stroke.

T (Time): A timely treatment is the need of the hour. Hence, if you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms then without any delay, you must immediately go to the hospital, and seek treatment. Doing so can be helpful.

Know why timely treatment is important

Getting a timely treatment after a stroke can help minimize the long-term effects. Quickly getting a stroke patient in a window period in the emergency room and giving him/her drug

which tends to dissolve the stroke-causing blood clot can make a difference. Thus, most important stroke treatment is the ‘TIME’ itself.

Life after a stroke

After suffering from a stroke, the patients may encounter sleep difficulties, tiredness, bladder or bowel incontinence or memory problems. Thus, rehabilitation therapy can be very useful for patients with stroke as it is an important part of recovery. It involves motor-skill exercises that can enhance one’s muscle strength and coordination. Mobility training will also be given which can be helpful for you. You will be provided walkers and wheelchairs. This will help you strengthen your ankle and gain your lost balance. You will also be taught certain exercises that may ease muscle tension and help you regain the range of motion. Moreover, occupational and speech therapies will be recommended for you. Occupational therapy can help you with memory, processing, problem –solving and social skills. While speech therapy can allow you to regain your speech, writing and listening skills.