A stroke can occur unexpectedly. Acting quickly can save a life and reduce long-term damage. Caregivers must be able to recognize warning signs and respond immediately.
What causes a stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain becomes blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes. The most common type, ischemic stroke, is the result of a blood clot. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel bursts. Both cases require urgent medical care.
Warning signs of stroke
Early recognition of a stroke can mean the difference between a full recovery and severe disability. Use the FAST method to check for symptoms:
- F -(Face drooling) Facial droop: One side of the face may be numb or look uneven when a person smiles.
- A -(Arm weakness) Arm weakness: a person may have difficulty lifting one arm or keeping both arms at the same level.
- S -(Speech difficulty) speech difficulty: unintelligible or odd speech may be a key warning sign.
- T -(Time to call emergency services) Time to call emergency services: If you notice any of these symptoms, call for medical help immediately.
Other symptoms include sudden loss of vision, confusion, dizziness, severe headache and difficulty walking.
How to respond quickly
If you suspect a stroke, act quickly:
- Call emergency services immediately – Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.
- Keep the person calm and seated – Help the person stay comfortable and reassure them.
- Check the time – Knowing when symptoms started helps doctors provide the right treatment.
- Do not give food, drink or medication – swallowing may be affected, increasing the risk of choking.
Reducing the risk of stroke
Although some risk factors, such as age and genetics, cannot be changed, caregivers can encourage healthy habits to reduce risk.
- Monitor your blood pressure – High blood pressure is a leading cause of strokes.
- Encourage a healthy diet – Low salt, less cooked foods and more fresh ingredients help protect the heart and brain.
- Encourage regular exercise – Walking, stretching and moving around improve circulation.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol – These habits significantly increase the risk of stroke.
Why choosing the right cares matters
Caring for a person at risk of stroke requires skill and quick decision-making. Atena provides trained caregivers who recognize medical emergencies and respond appropriately. We ensure that families receive reliable support, reducing stress and improving quality of life.
Do you need a professional caregiver who understands the risks of stroke? Atena is here to help. Contact us today to find the right caregiver for your loved one.
