Memorial Health - May 01, 2019

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a major cause of disability in adults in the US. Stroke takes the lives of approximately 130,000 Americans each year and on average, one American dies from stroke every four minutes. These are startling statistics, but by acting FAST, at the first sign of stroke, you can greatly increase your chance of survival.

Joseph Hogan, MD, emergency medicine doctor at Memorial Health University Medical Center, shares information about what to do if you, or a loved one, is having a stroke.

Stroke basics

A stroke occurs when a portion of the brain is deprived of oxygen or blood. That piece of the brain either dies or significantly malfunctions as a result," explains Dr. Hogan. There are two major types of stroke. Roughly 85 to 87 percent of strokes are isechemic, commonly referred to as dry strokes, while 15 to 20 percent are hemorrhagic. "In both instances, a portion of brain tissue is damaged by a lack of oxygen and blood flow, and that creates a stroke," says Hogan.

Stroke warning signs

When it comes to stroke, every minute counts. The sooner you get treated, the better your chance of survival and recovery.

"We, as physicians, like to give the medication within four hours of [stroke] onset, because we know it works better and the outcomes are better," says Hogan. "We really try to give it in under two, if we can."

If someone is having a stroke, think B-E F-A-S-T:

  • B-BALANCE: Is he or she having problems with balance or coordination?
  • E-EYES: Is the person experiencing double vision, blurred vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes?
  • F-FACE: Watch for facial drooping. Ask the person to smile and see if one side of the face droops.
  • A-ARMS: Is their arm weak? Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
  • S-SPEECH: Look out for slurred speech. Ask them to repeat a simple phrase, such as: "The sky is blue." Can he or she do it?
  • T-TIME: If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Even if the symptoms go away, still call for help.

Sometimes, severe headaches or dizziness can accompany a stroke but these symptoms aren't typical, says Hogan. However, a sudden change of vision associated with weakness, may signal a stroke, he says.

Be sure to note the time that symptoms first appeared. And don't try to drive yourself or a loved one to a hospital. Call for an ambulance so treatment can begin immediately.