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How do I know if its a Stroke? |
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Monday, 03 August 2009 10:24 |
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Sometimes it's quite obvious a person's had a stroke; if for example they are suddenly paralysed down one side of the body. But very often it's not clear that it is a stroke, especially if the stroke is mild. The symptoms may be confused with a fainting or dizzy spell, low blood sugar, a heart problem or some other condition.
But it’s crucial that if it is a stroke, it be recognised quickly. That's because treatment is much more successful if the person who's had the stroke gets to a hospital and has treatment fast.
There is a way for bystanders or relatives to tell whether or not it is a stroke, devised by the American Stroke Association. They should ask the affected person to do three things:
- Raise their arms and keep them up
- Smile
- Speak a simple sentence
If they have trouble with any of these tasks, it's likely they've had a stroke.
Call 000 immediately (in Australia) for an ambulance.
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Stroke Overview 