A stroke is a medical emergency that requires prompt and appropriate treatment. Knowing stroke first aid can be key to saving lives and minimizing long-term impacts. This article will discuss what to do if you witness someone having a stroke, with the goal of raising awareness and encouraging immediate action.
Recognizing Stroke Symptoms Quickly
In addition to the symptoms of GO TO THE HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY , some other symptoms that may appear include sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden confusion, sudden vision problems in one or both eyes, sudden severe headaches without an obvious cause, as well as difficulty walking, dizziness, or loss of balance.
What to Do When Someone Has a Stroke?
Don't panic! Follow these steps:
- Call Emergency Medical Assistance Immediately: This is a top priority. Have someone call immediately. Provide clear location information and describe the symptoms you're observing. Remember, emergency medical attention is key to saving any brain cells that may still be salvageable.
- Note the Time Symptoms Onset: This is very important for doctors. If you know when symptoms first appeared, share that information with the medical staff. There is a critical window (often within the first few hours) during which certain medications can be administered to dissolve blood clots and minimize brain damage.
- Help Patients Stay Safe and Comfortable:
- Lay the patient down with the head slightly raised , this helps reduce pressure on the brain.
- Loosen tight clothing , especially around the neck, to ensure a clear airway.
- Do not give the sufferer any food or drink , as they may have difficulty swallowing and are at risk of choking.
- If the patient vomits , turn the body to one side to prevent aspiration (vomit entering the lungs).
- Keep sharp or dangerous objects away from the person to prevent injury if they have a seizure.
- Don't Give Any Medication: Never give aspirin or any other medication to a person without medical advice. Strokes vary in type (ischemic or hemorrhagic), and the wrong medication can worsen the condition.
- Stay with the victim: Encourage and reassure the victim until medical help arrives. Continue to monitor their condition and report any changes to medical personnel.
Why is Speed So Important?
Every minute counts when someone is experiencing a stroke. This condition is often referred to as "time is brain." The sooner medical treatment is provided, the greater the chance of minimizing permanent brain damage and increasing the likelihood of a successful recovery. EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital has a 24-hour medical team with complete supporting facilities to handle stroke cases.
Take Action Now!
Don't take stroke symptoms lightly. If you or someone close to you experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above, don't hesitate to seek emergency medical attention immediately . Educate yourself and those around you about the signs of stroke and the importance of prompt action.
At EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for stroke patients. With modern facilities and an experienced team of neurologists, we are ready to provide comprehensive treatment for every stroke case.
Do you have further questions about stroke first aid or would like to learn more about our services? Please feel free to contact us.
Article written by Dr. Sigit Dewanto, Sp.N, FINS, FINA (Neurology Specialist Doctor at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).