A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within three hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke … totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed and getting to the patient within three hours which is tough.
Doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:
1. Ask the individual to SMILE.
2. Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
3. Ask the person to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE coherently. (For example: It is sunny out today.)
If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, call 9-1-1 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.
After discovering that a group of non-medical volunteers could identify facial weakness, arm weakness and speech problems, researchers urged the general public to learn the three questions. They presented their conclusions at the American Stroke Association’s annual meeting last February [2003]. Widespread use of this test could result in prompt diagnosis and treatment of the stroke and prevent brain damage.
NewMexiKen did a little checking and these instructions appear valid. Thanks to Jill for sending it along.
Learn to recognize a stroke and act quickly:
Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
Call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience symptoms!
Time lost is brain lost!