What are the signs and symptoms of a stroke?

Time is of the essence. A stroke or “brain attack” is a medical emergency. Your brain needs constant blood flow of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Brain cells start to die within minutes of the blood supply being cut off by any blockage, narrowing, or bleeding within the brain. A stroke can come on silently, painlessly, and suddenly. People of all ages can be affected by a stroke.

Signs that you may be having a stroke include any of the following:

• Sudden weakness, numbness, and or tingling to your face, arm and/or leg
• Difficulty using one side of the body
• Sudden confusion
• Trouble speaking or loss of speech
• Sudden severe headache
• Dizziness
• Sudden trouble walking
• Facial droop

Early intervention leads to better outcomes. If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911; this is an emergency.

Minimize your risks of developing a stroke with prevention:

• Know your blood pressure
• Have yearly physical examination to screen for heart disease and high cholesterol
• Quit smoking
• Limit your alcohol consumption
• Consume a low fat, low sodium diet
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are diabetic, maintain good control of your blood sugar levels.

The damage to brain cells takes minutes and it is permanent. Do not delay in acting on symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your risk factors.Prevention can save your life.

For more information about strokes, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).