Stroke Symptoms

Strokes (also called CVA - cerebrovascular accident, or brain attacks) are a silent killer. Symptoms do not normally appear until a person is actually having a stroke, at which point, the damage is irreversible if not treated in a timely manner. High blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, high cholesterol and obesity are some risk factors for stroke. Mini-strokes, or TIAs (transient ischemic attacks) are sometimes precursors to strokes. The symptoms are similar, however, in a TIA, the symptoms will resolve on their own after a short time. There are other health problems, such as Bell's Palsy or hypoglycemia, which mimic the symptoms of a stroke, but it is very important to seek immediate treatment.

Cells need oxygen in order to carry on their roles in the body. Oxygen is carried to the cells through the blood. If something occurs to prevent the delivery of oxygen to the cells, the cells die. Most cells are unable to regenerate, and once they die, they are unable to continue their function in the body, causing a variety of medical problems, from strokes to heart attacks. In the case of the stroke, if brain cells are deprived of oxygen for more than 2 hours, they will die, causing a multitude of symptoms. If treatment is begun within the 2 hour window, the possibility of preventing permanent damage is increased, so it is important to seek treatment the moment symptoms begin, by either calling 911 or going to the emergency room.

There are two types of stroke - hemmorrhagic and ischemic. Hemmorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain is weakened (often by uncontrolled high blood pressure) and bursts, limiting the flow of blood to the surrounding tissues. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot, piece of fat, or other mass clogs the blood vessel preventing blood flow to the surrounding tissue. Of the two, the hemmorrhagic stroke is the most dangerous.

There are a multitude of symptoms to watch for:

1. A severe headache. These headaches are often described as "the worst headache ever." Another description of this type of headache is the "thunderclap" because it is sudden and severe.

2. Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body. This will prevent normal use of one side of the body. The body might droop to that side, as will the face. The patient will have a smile that droops to the affected side.

3. Loss of balance or dizziness. The patient may suddenly become weak, dizzy, lose balance or coordination or have trouble walking or moving. This ties in with the above syptom.

4. Slurred speech or difficulty speaking. Often the patient will be unable to speak clearly. Their speech might not make sense, or they might not be able to find the right words.

5. Confusion. The patient may be unable to understand and obey simple commands. They may also have difficulty understanding speech.  

6. Vision disturbances. This is of particular concern if it is only in one eye. Loss of vision is also included with this symptom.

Any number of other symptoms could be signs of a stroke. If any of these symptoms occur, or if any other symptoms occur that cause concern, it is important to seek medical treatment immediately. Do not just sit by and hope that it will resolve itself. In many instances, immediate treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening, and in some cases can reverse symptoms. If given within 2-3 hours of the onset of symptoms, drugs called tPA or tissue plasminogen activators can be used to break up the clot and prevent further damage to the brain tissue. 

It is very important to visit your physician regularly. Know what medical conditions that you have and how to control them, either with medication or diet, or a combination of the two. Ask your doctor any questions that you might have about your health, and if you have multiple doctors, make sure that they are aware of all of the prescriptions that you are taking. Being compliant with medications and diets, and taking care of your health will allow you to lead a happier, healthier life. 

Disclaimer: I am a Paramedic, however my information is not intended to serve as medical advice or treatment. See your doctor or visit the emergency room immediately if you have any of the above symptoms or if you have any medical problems or conditions.

Copyright 2009 K. Frost