Stroke is a Silent Killer: Doctor Demonstrates How to Identify It in Seconds

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Stroke, or the silent killer, as it is best known, can strike without any notice and cause life-threatening damage in a question of minutes. Medically known as Cerebrovascular Accidents (CVAs), strokes occur either due to a disruption in the flow of blood to the brain or a rupturing of the blood vessels in the brain. This interruption deprives the brain cells of oxygen and leads to massive brain damage or death if not treated immediately.

It is essential to recognize the early symptoms of a stroke since early medical intervention can save lives and reduce long-term disability.

What Causes a Stroke?

Dr. Ravi Kesari, MD General Physician at Apollo Spectra Hospital, informs us that there are two kinds of strokes:

1. Ischemic Stroke: This results from a blockage in blood vessels, which prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching brain tissues.
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts, leading to internal bleeding.

Both types must be treated immediately. Late treatment will result in permanent physical and mental impairment.

Why It Is Important to Identify Early Stroke Symptoms

In recent years, stroke has been on the increase in young adults, and it is typically brought on by what seems to be minimal symptoms like sudden numbness or headache. These early warning signs should never be ignored since they may be symptoms of an acute medical condition.

Dr. Kesari stresses that "time is brain" — the earlier you recognize and act on symptoms, the better the chances for recovery.

How to Spot a Stroke in No Time: The BE FAST Method

To help the public identify strokes early, Dr. Kesari recommends the simple-to-remember acronym BE FAST, which highlights the most common warning signs:

1. B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or dizziness.
2. E – Eyes: Sudden blindness or blurred vision in one or both eyes.
3. F – Face: One side of the face drooping or numbness when smiling.
4. A – Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm, especially if one arm drops when it is lifted.
5. S – Speech: Slurred, garbled, or abnormal speech, and difficulty finding words.
6. T – Time: Time to call emergency services immediately and note when symptoms started.

 

Additional Stroke Symptoms to Watch For

Besides the BE FAST symptoms, Dr. Kesari warns us about additional major symptoms that can indicate a stroke, including:

• Numbness or unusual sensations on one side of the body anywhere.
• Sudden headaches that are severe and unexplained.
• Sudden loss of coordination or dizziness.
• Seizures or fainting.

Any of these symptoms warrant emergency medical evaluation.

What to Do If You Suspect a Stroke

If you or someone near you has any of the signs of a stroke, act fast:

1. Call Emergency Services Right Away: Don't wait to check if symptoms go away.

2. Wait for the Time: Take note of when symptoms began to inform medical responders.

3. Make the Person Safe and Calm: Have them sit or lie down until help comes.

Conclusion

Strokes are a medical emergency and, if left untreated, can cause permanent brain damage or death. Understanding the causes, recognizing the early symptoms with the BE FAST method, and seeking immediate medical attention are essential to save a life.

Remember, stroke can occur in anyone at any age, and your strongest defense is awareness.