Stroke: Emergency Medicine-Washington Daily News

Rachel Miller

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of disability, according to the American Stroke Association. Each year in the United States, approximately 800,000 suffer from stroke, of which 140,000 die. Americans who are overweight, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoke the highest risk of stroke. The risk of stroke is also higher in individuals over the age of 65, but it can occur at any age. It is important for everyone to understand what a stroke is, what they can do to prevent it, and what they need to do when they experience symptoms such as a stroke.

Most symptoms of stroke are acute or sudden, but symptoms can be gradual. If you have symptoms, it is very important to see a doctor as soon as possible to reduce the risk of injury or death. Remember the acronym BEFAST (balance, eyes, face, arms, speech, time). You or your family may have a stroke if you have any of the following:

• Sudden loss of balance or difficulty walking;
• dizzy;
• Sudden blurred vision or blindness in one or both eyes;
• Sudden onset of severe headache;
• Facial drooping;
• Unclear speech or difficulty speaking;
• confusion;
• Numbness or weakness, usually on one side.

If you have one or more of these symptoms, contact 9-1-1 immediately. It is very important to record the specific symptoms that are experienced or witnessed and the last time the person was seen without symptoms. This time it is called Last Known Well (LKW) and it is important. Be sure to provide this information to your emergency services personnel and hospital medical staff. With this information, the medical team can determine what type of treatment is needed and available to the patient.

There are three main types of stroke: transient ischemic attack (TIA), ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke. Transient ischemic stroke (TIA), commonly referred to as a “ministroke”, occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted for a short period of time. Symptoms of TIA are similar to stroke, but usually last for a short time and do not cause permanent damage. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours. However, it is important to note that 33% of people who experience a TIA eventually develop a more severe stroke, with nearly half of these occurring within a year of the first TIA.

Ischemic stroke is the most common type, accounting for 87% of all strokes. Ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked by thrombus or the accumulation of plaque in the arteries of the brain or neck. The only treatment available for this type of stroke is clot removal. Use medication or surgically remove the blood clot.

Hemorrhagic stroke, sometimes called “cerebral hemorrhage”, is caused by the rupture of blood vessels, allowing blood to collect in and around the brain. This puts pressure on the brain and causes blood loss to the surrounding tissues. Hemorrhagic stroke requires urgent emergency treatment with an emphasis on controlling bleeding and reducing pressure on the brain, and may require surgical intervention. All strokes are emergency medical care.

Preventive measures are the best way to help reduce the risk of stroke. As mentioned above, those who are overweight, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or are at highest risk of smoking. These risk factors can be modified or managed. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the key factors in preventing stroke risk and can be achieved through a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Another important precaution is to quit smoking. Smoking significantly increases the chances of a stroke. According to a randomized, double-blind, controlled study completed by the American Academy of Neurology, smoking was estimated to be responsible for 12% to 37% of all strokes and was considered one of the leading preventable causes. It is being done. The likelihood of stroke associated with smoking is reduced by nearly 30% in those who have kicked the habit.

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can also be controlled, reduced, and managed by a healthy diet, regular exercise, and taking prescribed medications. Maintaining an appointment with a regular primary care provider is also important in helping to manage and maintain health-related issues to minimize the risk of stroke.

Rachel Miller, RN, is an emergency department staff nurse and stroke coordinator at Vidant Beaufort Hospital. She can contact 252-975-4319.