What to do when a stroke occurs?

Acting quickly can make the difference between life and death, or between full recovery and severe long-term consequences. This is why it is essential to know what to do when a stroke occurs.

A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. It can be caused by a clot blocking an artery (ischemic) or by the rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic).

Early identification of a stroke

To recognize a stroke in time, it is essential to know the most common symptoms:

• Sudden loss of strength or sensation on one side of the body, especially in the face, arm, or leg.
• Difficulty speaking or understanding what others are saying.
• Loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• Severe and sudden headache with no apparent cause.
• Loss of balance, dizziness, or difficulty walking.

If you notice these signs in someone nearby or in yourself, it is vital to act immediately and follow the proper steps for what to do when a stroke occurs.

Immediate steps to take in the event of a stroke

1. Call emergency services immediately

The first and most important step in what to do when a stroke occurs is to call emergency services. In most countries, you can dial the emergency number (911, 112, etc.). It is essential to provide clear and concise information about the affected person’s symptoms.

2. Stay calm and help the person lie down

If the person is conscious, help them lie down in a safe and comfortable place. It is advisable to keep the head slightly elevated to support blood circulation.

3. Do not give food or drink

It is crucial to avoid giving the person food or drink, as swallowing difficulties may be present, increasing the risk of choking.

4. Observe and record the symptoms

Noting the time when the symptoms began can be helpful for doctors when determining treatment. Some medications are only effective if administered within the first few hours after the stroke begins.

5. Do not administer medication without medical guidance

While some may think that giving aspirin could help, this is only appropriate in certain types of stroke (ischemic). If the stroke is hemorrhagic, aspirin can worsen the situation by increasing bleeding.

Medical and hospital treatment

Once at the hospital, doctors will perform tests such as CT scans or MRIs to determine the type of stroke and the most appropriate treatment. Depending on the case, the following treatments may be applied:

• For an ischemic stroke: Administration of thrombolytic medications to dissolve the clot, surgery to remove it, or procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy.
• For a hemorrhagic stroke: Blood pressure control, surgery to repair the damaged artery, and in some cases, drainage of excess blood in the brain.

Rehabilitation and recovery

Knowing what to do when a stroke occurs involves not only the immediate response but also the follow-up after the event. Rehabilitation is crucial for recovering motor, cognitive, and speech functions. Treatments may include:

• Physical therapy to improve mobility and strengthen muscles.
• Occupational therapy to regain daily living skills.
• Speech and language therapy in case of communication difficulties.
• Psychological support to cope with emotional aftereffects.

Prevention of future strokes

After experiencing a stroke, it is essential to follow certain recommendations to reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Maintain a healthy diet low in saturated fats and sodium.
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Manage conditions such as diabetes and atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion

Knowing what to do when a stroke occurs can save lives and significantly reduce the impact of this serious condition. The key is to recognize the symptoms, act quickly, and seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent future episodes and improve the quality of life for patients who have experienced a stroke.

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