A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted or cut off. The probability for recovery is high, provided the patient receives treatment as soon as possible. Different parts of the brain control various functions of the body; therefore, symptoms vary depending on which part of the brain is affected.
A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted or cut off. The probability for recovery is high, provided the patient receives treatment as soon as possible. Different parts of the brain control various functions of the body; therefore, symptoms vary depending on which part of the brain is affected.
Symptoms of a Stroke
Symptoms of a stroke develop suddenly and usually include one or more of the following:
- Weakness of an arm, leg or both. This may range from total paralysis of one side of the body to mild clumsiness of one hand.
- Weakness and twisting of one side of the face, which may include drooling saliva or slurred speech.
- Problems with balance, co-ordination, vision, speech, communication or swallowing.
- Dizziness or unsteadiness
- Numbness in parts of the body
- Headache
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness (occurs in severe cases)
Acting F.A.S.T. During a Stroke
Acting F.A.ST. is one of the most efficient ways to treat a stroke. Individuals diagnosed and treated within 3 to 4.5 hours of the attack may improve the chances of recovering from a stroke. Doctors recommend calling an ambulance with equipped medical personnel to begin the treatment as soon as possible. A stroke can be recognized easily by the following indicators:
F: Facial drooping/weakness
A: Arm weakness
S: Slurred Speech
T: Time to call an ambulance!
Risk Factors & Prevention
Individuals with medical conditions or poor lifestyle develop increased chances for a stroke. Factors, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes, cardio-vascular diseases, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity majorly contribute to the occurrence of a stroke. In order to prevent a stroke, experts at RMI recommend regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and physical activity.
Treatment for Strokes at RMI
RMI has a dedicated Stroke Unit that functions in a multidisciplinary fashion to provide the best neurological treatment in the region. With the collaborative efforts of the Physical Therapy Department, RMI provides rehabilitation services, in order to regain physical strength and speed up the recovery process.
