A stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain is blocked (ischemic) or a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to leakage and bleeding (hemorrhagic). Strokes are sudden. You're fine one minute, then suddenly, the symptoms set in. Symptoms can vary, so below is a hint to help you look for signs that may indicate a stroke is occurring:
The BE-FAST Test Can Save Lives
B = BALANCE: Sudden loss of balance or leaning to one side when walking? Even a simple stumble can be suspect. (There may also be a sudden loss of basic muscle movement, bladder included).
E = EYES: Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes? Involuntary eye movements.
F = FACE: Ask the person to smile or stick out their tongue. Is one side drooping, or is the tongue deviated to one side?
A = ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward or cannot lift, or is uncoordinated? Numbness on one side or in a specific area can also be a sign.
S = SPEECH: Difficulty, slurred, or inability to speak. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase.
T = TIME: Immediately call 911. Do not drive to the emergency room. The Emergency Medical team can begin treatment before arrival at the E.R. Always have a list of current meds available for the E.M.T.
Every Minute Counts
There is no time to waste. This is NOT a "wait and see" scenario. Strokes are a true medical emergency. The timely administration of clot-busting drugs has saved many lives from crippling disabilities. You have a 4 – 5 hours window from onset to administer "clot-busting" medicines. Also, Watch for Sudden: Numbness, Confusion, Trouble seeing or walking and, severe headache (with no known cause), Trouble swallowing.
Three things NOT to do:
- Do NOT let the person go to sleep or talk you out of calling 911. Many people say they went to sleep before coming to the hospital because they were tired.
- Do not give them medication, food, or drinks.
- Do NOT drive yourself or someone else to the emergency room.
Providing this information may help you or a loved one from an irreversible outcome due to a stroke. This is because family takes care of family, and you are part of our American Retirement Advisors family.
By Sharon Groves
Sharon Groves covers health, wellness, and lifestyle topics for the ARA newsletter, helping readers make informed decisions about their wellbeing in retirement.
You Might Also Like
- Where Is Your Emergency Medical Information?
Medicare & Healthcare · Sharon Groves - Saving Your Life: The Importance of Medical Information Preparedness
Medicare & Healthcare · Sharon Groves - Don't Ignore Hearing Loss... Here's Why It Costs More Than You Think
Medicare & Healthcare · Tammy Semler
Easy Eddie's Take
Sharon's BE-FAST guide is something every family should know, but it's especially important for our retirement community. The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association report that stroke risk doubles every decade after age 55, and about two-thirds of stroke hospitalizations happen to people over 65. Here's the good news: recognizing the signs quickly can make all the difference.
A lot of people ask me, "What should I have ready for emergencies like this?" Keep a current medication list in your wallet and another copy on your refrigerator where EMTs can easily find it. Include not just prescriptions, but also any supplements, over-the-counter medications, and important medical history like allergies or recent procedures. Many Arizona hospitals, including Banner Health and Mayo Clinic locations, can access your medical records faster when they have this information upfront.
Think of it this way: you wouldn't drive without car insurance, so don't face medical emergencies without preparation. Having this information ready and knowing BE-FAST could save precious time when every minute counts.