1. Acute Stroke Defined
An acute stroke is one that is sudden and unexpected. When a stroke hits the brain, the area affected loses oxygen and that part of the brain becomes injured. If the stroke occurs in the left brain, the right side of the body is affected. If the stroke occurs in the right brain, the left side of the body is affected.
2. Different Strokes
A stroke is caused either by a blockage or a hemorrhage. A blockage can be from a blood clot or a piece of plaque breaking off and traveling to the brain. This type of ischemic stroke cuts off the blood supply to the part of the brain where the clot lodges. When blood flow is stopped, brain cells die and damage occurs from the lack of oxygen and nutrients carried by the blood. In a hemorrhagic stroke, a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds directly into the brain causing brain damage. A trans-ischemic attack (TIA) is commonly called a "mini stroke" that can last for only minutes. TIA's can be a precursor to an acute stroke, but not all patients who experience a TIA will have a stroke.
3. Stroke Symptoms are F.A.S.T.
The symptoms of an acute stroke include sudden weakness, numbness or tingling, especially on one side of the body. Sudden vision problems or double vision, sudden confusion, sudden difficulty with speech or sudden difficulty walking are symptoms of an acute stroke. Some people also experience a sudden and severe headache that is often described as the worst headache they've ever had. The easiest way to remember stroke symptoms are F.A.S.T. The face may be drawn to one side or it may droop--ask the person to smile. Arms may be difficult to move or may be unequal when you ask the person to raise his arms. Speech may be slurred or difficult to understand--ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Time is of the essence if any of these symptoms are present.
4. Act Fast
An acute stroke is a medical emergency. Quick action is required to minimize the effects of the stroke. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, call 911 immediately. If you are alone, call for help immediately. The longer you wait to get treatment, the more severe the stroke may be. "Time lost is brain lost" is a slogan the American Stroke Association wants everyone to remember.
5. Emergency Treatment
A clot-busting drug (thrombolytic) can be administered to those who've had an ischemic stroke if treatment begins within 3 hours. If it has been longer than 3 hours, the risk of bleeding and further complications increases. Clot-busting drugs cannot be used with a hemorrhagic stroke because they can cause even more bleeding into the brain. Surgery to open blocked arteries or remove the blockage may be performed. Surgery may also be performed on hemorrhagic stroke patients to stop the bleeding into the brain.
