What are the warning signs of a stroke?

Watch out for the following:

• A weak or numb feeling in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Loss of speech or trouble understanding speech.
• Dimness, blurring or loss of vision, particularly in only one eye.
• Unexplained dizziness, especially when associated with any of the above signs.
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.

What to do:

• Call for help ASAP and check the time – time is critical. Treat stroke as a medical emergency. The earlier treatment is received, the better the chances of recovery. Every minute that brain cells are deprived of oxygen and die during a stroke, increases the risk and extent of brain damage. Medical help must be given as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms. This will improve the chances of survival and successful rehabilitation. Certain hospitals around the country offer clot-busting drugs that significantly aid recovery provided they are administered within three hours.
• While help is on its way, get the patient comfortable (semi-sitting, loosen tight clothing). Reduce their anxiety – don’t let them become the center of attention.
• Do not give anything to them by mouth.
• If the patient vomits turn them on their side and allow fluids to drain from their mouth to prevent aspiration.
• If the patient becomes unconscious, place them in the recovery position on the weakened side to ease breathing. Monitor their condition in case it deteriorates.
• If the victim stops breathing, or goes into cardiac-respiratory arrest, start CPR.

Emergency Numbers:

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