The faster you’re treated after a stroke, the more likely you are to survive. Early detection and treatment can also minimize brain damage and lower your risk of long-term disability. So it’s important to recognize stroke symptoms when you see them.
Here are the common symptoms of stroke. Since you need to act quickly in the event of a stroke, the acronym FAST can help you remember them:
FACE. When smiling, does one side of the face droop?
ARMS. After lifting both hands, does one drop back down?
SPEECH. Is speech slurred or otherwise odd?
TIME. If the answer to any of the above questions is yes, it’s TIME to call for help. Remember, every minute counts. So you’ll want to dial 911 instead of taking time out to drive to a Kansas City hospital.
According to the National Stroke Association, there are some additional stroke indicators. These include sudden:
- Numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, or in the face, particularly if it’s on just one side of the body
- Confusion and/or difficulty speaking
- Vision problems, particularly difficulty seeing out of one or both eyes
- Dizziness, trouble walking, or balance issues
- Severe headache of unknown origin.
Do You Need Help?
If you’re living alone and in poor health (or are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia) it may be time to consider home care in Kansas City. A good Kansas City home health agency can help you with things like bathing and grooming, medication reminders, basic chores, and making sure you make your regular doctor visits. It will also give you an extra set of eyes if you’re concerned you may miss the early warning signs of stroke.
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