A stroke occurs when a blood clot or burst blood vessel interrupts blood flow to the brain. Because symptoms of stroke come on suddenly, a patient who is unfamiliar with the signs of stroke may postpone treatment if the symptoms are not severe. According to a British study reported in the journal “Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association,” less than a third of stroke patients surveyed were aware they suffered a minor stroke, and two-thirds failed to seek medical treatment within the first 24-hour period.
Symptoms
If a person exhibits sudden confusion, dizziness, numbness on one side of the body, or loss of vision in one or both eyes, a stroke should be suspected. Although less common, a sudden onset of a severe headache with no identifiable cause may indicate a stroke or hemorrhage in the brain. While symptoms of a transient ischemic attack (TIA) may be less severe and disappear after a short time, it is imperative to follow through with medical evaluation to prevent a second and potentially more severe stroke.
Significance
When a symptom of stroke manifests itself, it is an indication that damage has already occurred in the brain. Although it is natural to question the validity of your initial assessment, an immediate medical response can be the difference between a full recovery and permanent disability. When administered within three hours after symptoms begin, the FDA-approved clot-busting drug tPA effectively dissolves blood clots in ischemic stroke victims.
Misconceptions
Although many people do not recognize the symptoms of stroke, those who do may still postpone emergency care, according to a study by the Michigan Department of Community Health and reported in Science Daily. When presented with three common stroke symptoms, approximately 85 percent of respondents said they would not call for emergency medical response. Equally worrisome, symptoms of stroke may be misinterpreted by the patient or medical personnel, causing a further delay in treatment.
Diagnosis
When a stroke patient is admitted for emergency medical treatment, a physical and neurological exam is performed to determine the severity and location of the suspected stroke. The National Institutes of Health's Stroke Scale is a 15-item exam that enables a trained observer to assess the patient’s ability to answer questions and perform simple tasks. A family medical history, current medications and exiting chronic conditions are also pertinent to the diagnosis. Basic lab tests will be done and a CT Scan or an MRI is usually ordered to obtain more in-depth information.
Considerations
Prompt diagnosis and immediate medical care are crucial to halt damage and prevent long-term disability. Yet a study conducted by the American Stroke Association found nearly 60 percent of respondents did not know if their local hospital offered specialized services for stroke. Certified stroke centers have specialized medical equipment and on-staff physicians equipped to diagnose, treat and provide emergency stroke care and rehabilitation. Certification is obtained through the American Stroke Association and the American Heart Association. As of 2010, stroke-certified hospitals are found in 49 states and in the District of Columbia. An online hospital locator provided by the American Stroke Association offers a listing of stroke-certified hospitals by address or area code.
References
- American Heart Association: Many Patients Don’t Know They Had a Minor Stroke, Need Emergency Care
- ScienceDaily: People Who Recognize Stroke Symptoms Still May Not Call 9-1-1
- KnowStroke: NIH Stroke Scale International
- American Heart Association: Most Americans Unaware of Hospitals Specializing in Stroke
- American Stroke Association: Hospital Locator
