Strokes are a serious medical emergency that can be life-threatening if proper treatment is not sought. Ischemic strokes result from obstructions in the blood vessels in the brain, while haemorrhagic strokes result from leaking or ruptured blood vessels. This type of stroke causes damage to the brain by increasing pressure.
Strokes may require emergency surgery and other procedures. People who have had strokes may also be required to undergo therapy, such as physical and occupational therapy. Certain medications can also be used to manage symptoms and prevent new health issues from occurring.
Physicians can prescribe one or more medications to treat strokes and prevent more serious health effects:
Swift treatment is key to effectively treating strokes. Accordingly, people are encouraged to use the FAST acronym to identify the signs and get immediate medical treatment:
Strokes cause drooping on one side of the face. Ask the person to smile to determine whether this is an issue.
Next, request that the person raise both arms. With strokes, one arm will often resist being lifted or fall downward.
People having strokes often experience difficulty speaking. They may slur their words or be unable to communicate.
If the above signs are present, call for emergency medical treatment right away. When speaking with the operator, give the time that symptoms first began.
Along with these symptoms, people experiencing a stroke may also exhibit confusion, have problems with their vision, feel a numb sensation in the face, arm, or leg, complain of a severe headache, and lack coordination. Every second counts with a stroke, so don’t delay.