Stroke
The novel coronavirus is unlike any disease we’ve seen in history. While knowledge is still limited, we do know that Covid-19 causes a host of wacky symptoms. Among those is a Covid-19-induced stroke that can happen in otherwise healthy individuals.
Would you recognize the signs of a stroke if your loved one was in distress?
Due to the pandemic, it’s crucial that you get informed NOW. The best way to identify a stroke is to B.E.F.A.S.T. Read on to learn what each of these symptoms is and what they mean.
B: Balance
A stroke happens when the brain’s blood supply gets disrupted. It makes sense, then, that the first symptom of a stroke is balance issues.
Your loved one may have a sudden onset of dizziness. They may lose their balance and coordination. They may feel the need to sit or lie down.
E: Eyes
Next, the person will likely experience vision issues. Your loved one may complain of not being able to see in one or both eyes.
If your loved one can still see, they might experience disturbances. Look for any signs of double vision or a lack of peripheral vision.
F: Facial Weakness
Facial weakness is the primary symptom of a stroke. Sometimes, a stroke will impact one side of the body more than the other.
Ask your loved one to attempt to smile or stick out their tongue. If one side of your loved one’s face is drooping, then that’s a sign of trouble.
A: Arm Weakness
Next, ask your loved one to raise both of their arms above their head. Does one arm seem slumped over? Does your loved one say that one arm feels numb and weak?
When this symptom appears seemingly out of nowhere, it’s alarming. There’s a good chance that the cause is a stroke.
S: Slurred or Impaired Speech
Slurred or impaired speech is a major red flag. If your loved one can’t repeat simple phrases, then they need immediate help.
Even after a stroke, your loved one may struggle. They may have long-term problems forming and understanding speech. Consider looking into neurological services if that’s the case.
T: Time to Call 911
Did you notice the signs above? If so, then it’s time to call 911.
Each second, your loved one could lose up to 32,000 brain cells. That means there’s no time to “wait and see” or attempt to drive yourself to the hospital.
Can You Recognize These Signs of a Stroke?
The signs of a stroke can be deceptive when taken as individual symptoms. When you put all the pieces together, though, it’s time to BE FAST. A stroke is a medical emergency, so don’t hesitate to dial 911 if you think someone’s experiencing a stroke.
Are you looking for more important health tips to keep you safe in 2020? You’re not alone. This year has been pivotal when it comes to prioritizing our health. Keep browsing through our blog to see more of our best content.