A stroke is a brain attack that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is blocked. Experiencing a loved one have a stroke can be quite terrifying, but you have to stay calm because every second counts. When a person is having a stroke, part of the brain is not getting oxygen which could lead to brain cells dying. It is essential that the stroke victim gets quick treatment to prevent brain damage. Here is how you can help a person suffering from a stroke.
Call 911
The first thing that you should do is call 911 once you start noticing the stroke symptoms. It helps to know the stroke symptoms so you can act first. You will know a person is having a stroke if they start having trouble with their vision and their speech. They will either be slurring words or speaking nonsense. They will also show weakness on one side of the body or face, for example when asked to lift both hands one hand does not move. If you notice any of these symptoms, do not hesitate call 911 so an ambulance can come to take them to the nearest Brooklyn hospital for treatment.
Note when the symptoms started.
Noting when you first started noticing symptoms can be quite helpful. There is a clot-busting medication called Tissue Plasminogen Activator or tPA that is given to individuals who are having a stroke. The medication is meant to reverse or stop stroke symptoms from developing further. However, the medication is only given within the first 4.5 hours after stroke symptoms. Hence it is important to know when the symptoms started. Other things you should note is the medication they took. If possible, you can carry them with you to the Brooklyn hospital.
Keep them comfortable
If you are caring for an individual suffering from a stroke, you want to keep them comfortable after calling 911. Lay them on their side and support their head in case they vomit. Keep checking if they are breathing and if necessary perform CPR. loosen their tie or scarf to help them breath easily.
What not to do
Do not allow the person to go to sleep. Many patients having a stroke say they felt sleepy. Also, do not give them any food or drink because a stroke can affect a person’s ability to swallow. Do not give them medication because it might make the situation worse. Do not drive the patient to an emergency room. It might feel like the right thing to do, but by calling 911, the emergency responders will start lifesaving treatment on the way to the emergency room.
As frightening as the ordeal might be it is important to stay calm and use the above tips to help your loved one. Keep reassuring the stroke victim that everything will be fine.
