Strokes: What to Look For

Although unable to find and credit the original source, the following knowledge of first aid is always helpful. The simple steps outlined might save a life or lessen later complications. None of us is getting any younger. Spread this around as you see fit.

Stroke Identification:
A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within three hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within three hours, which is tough.

Recognizing a Stroke:
Remember the “three” steps, S.T.R. Read and learn!

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now, doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

S: Ask the individual to smile.
T: Ask the person to talk and speak a simple sentence coherently. (i.e. It is sunny out today.)
R: Ask him or her to raise both arms.

If he or she has trouble with any one of these tasks, call 999/911 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

New Sign of a Stroke
Another sign of a stroke is this: Ask the person to stick out his tongue. If the tongue is crooked—goes to one side or the other—that is also an indication of a stroke. Q

A special thanks to David Mills of the Thermal Thumbers of Metro Atlanta for providing this information.