Stroke is a type of cerebrovascular disease, which is one of the UK’s leading causes of death. The Stroke Association states that 100,000 people experience a stroke every year, with 1.4 million stroke survivors currently living in the UK. While many make a full recovery after experiencing a stroke, the lasting impact can be devastating to the individual and their loved ones.
Time is essential when dealing with a stroke. The quicker a person gets medical treatment after exhibiting symptoms, the more likely they are to make a full recovery with minimal brain damage. Today, we’ll explore common stroke symptoms and what to do if you spot them.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a blood clot or a brain bleed that interrupts blood flow to the brain, depriving the cells of the organ of oxygen. When the brain is without oxygen for too long, it can lead to neurological damage, complications and sometimes death.
There are several different types of stroke, including:
- Ischaemic stroke: The brain’s blood vessels are blocked by a clot or have become too narrow for blood to get through, reducing oxygen and causing brain cells in the affected area to die. Ischaemic strokes account for 80% of all strokes.
- Haemorrhagic stroke: The blood vessels in the brain burst instead of being blocked. This leads to blood leaking into the brain, causing different but still severe damage.
- Subarachnoid haemorrhage: A bleed into the subarachnoid space, which is a specific area in the brain. This is usually due to a burst aneurysm, where a weak spot has developed in a blood vessel’s wall.
Some people experience a ‘mini stroke’, otherwise known as a transient ischaemic attack (TIA). A temporary disruption in the blood supply to the brain is the cause, usually rectifying itself before a full stroke can occur. Most people recover well from a TIA, but they’re taken very seriously as they can increase the risk of a larger stroke in the future.
Stroke symptoms: signs to watch for
The popular acronym FAST is an effective way of remembering the main symptoms of a stroke:
- FaceÂ
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the face. They may have trouble smiling, and their eyes and mouth might appear droopy on one side.
- Arms
The individual might have weakness in one arm, usually on the same side as the facial symptoms. Ask them to lift both arms; if they are unable, seek emergency medical attention.
- Speech
Speech becomes slurred, and some people lose the ability to talk altogether. They might also have difficulty understanding what you’re saying.
- Time
If you notice any of the above symptoms, it’s time to call 999. Don’t wait to see if the symptoms disappear on their own, even if the individual says they’re okay.
FAST not only helps you remember the key symptoms of a stroke, but also how critical quick reactions are at this moment. The longer it takes for a person to get treatment, the bigger impact the stroke can have on their speech, mobility and independence. Think FAST, act FAST.
Continue reading our helpful guide on what to do when someone is having a stroke.
Are there any warning signs of a stroke?
Strokes often occur suddenly, and each person typically experiences a range of symptoms to varying degrees. However, there may be certain cases where warning signs of a stroke can be spotted beforehand, getting the individual help before the situation becomes life-threatening.
Unusual warning signs of a stroke could include:
- Vision issues, including dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Dizziness or problems with balance and coordination
- Difficulties moving or walking
- Fainting or seizures
- Severe headaches with no known cause, especially if they occur suddenly
Symptoms can develop gradually over several hours. For example, you may experience mild numbness on one side of your body, which progresses to more significant weakness or inability to move that limb as the brain becomes more deprived of oxygen.
TIAs can also appear gradually, with the temporary blockage in the brain causing stroke-like symptoms. The mini-stroke might only last a few minutes, but it can be a warning sign that a bigger stroke is imminent.
Who is at higher risk of a stroke?
Stroke symptoms can appear suddenly for anyone, but certain groups of people are at higher risk of developing a blood clot or brain bleed. People who are at higher risk of having a stroke are:
- Older than 65
- Smokers or those who use other forms of tobacco products
- Recreational or non-prescription drug users
Certain health conditions can also increase your stroke risk. These may include:
- COVID-19
- Alcohol use disorder
- High blood pressure
- Frequent migraine headaches
- High cholesterol
- Type 2 diabetes
Your healthcare professional will be able to assess your risk and give you practical advice on reducing your stroke risk. This may include exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet, along with managing pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation. Alcohol should only be consumed in moderation, and you should consider quitting smoking altogether.
Stroke care from trinity homecare
At Trinity Homecare, we’re committed to providing clients with bespoke, comprehensive care, including stroke survivors. Our fully trained, compassionate carers are experienced in the symptoms and effects of strokes, understanding the slow but steady recovery process. They care for survivors presently while still looking to the future, keeping an eye on changes in condition and warning signs.
Our stroke care service includes:
- Assistance with daily personal routine, including dressing and bathing
- Encouraging gentle exercise and physiotherapy support
- Guidance with nutrition and healthy meal planning
- Support learning new skills
- Transport to and from appointments
- Companionship and emotional support for the whole family
Trinity Homecare understands that the most important aspect of home care is prioritising independence and dignity. Our visiting and live-in carers hold these two values to a high standard, supporting clients in returning to their normal routine.
We have a useful guide on the benefits of live-in care when recovering from a stroke.
Talk to our team today
If your loved one requires home care, chat with one of our friendly care team today. We offer a free, no-obligation enquiry and assessment service and are happy to offer information and advice to help you find the perfect home care solution.
Call us on 020 4572 5583 in confidence for a free no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.
