Stroke Symptoms in Elderly People: Stroke is a medical emergency, which occurs when the blood flow to the brain suddenly stops or reduces. Due to this, the brain does not get oxygen and essential nutrients. If timely treatment is not received, brain damage, paralysis and even danger to life can occur. Doctors say that people often ignore the initial symptoms of stroke, especially when they appear while waking up in the morning.
Why does stroke occur?
There are mainly two types of stroke. First ischemic stroke, in which a blood clot forms in a brain vein. Secondly, hemorrhagic stroke, in which the vein bursts or starts leaking. Apart from this, there is also a mini stroke or TTA, which is considered a warning of a major stroke in the future. High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, heart disease, lack of physical activity and drinking excess alcohol are the major reasons for this.
Early symptoms of stroke seen in the morning
According to doctors, many times the signs of stroke start appearing as soon as you wake up in the morning. If one part of the face seems loose or crooked, if the face looks uneven when you smile, then be careful. Sudden weakness, numbness, or tingling in an arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, can be a major sign of a stroke.
Sudden difficulty in speaking is also a dangerous sign. If words are not clear, things are not understood or you have trouble repeating simple sentences, do not take it lightly. Apart from this, sudden loss of vision in one eye, double vision or complete loss of vision in one eye also indicates stroke.
Some people may suddenly experience confusion in the morning, difficulty in understanding things, loss of balance or staggering while walking. In the elderly, these symptoms may be even milder, such as sudden extreme fatigue, silence, changes in behavior or difficulty in performing daily tasks.
Identify stroke with FAST test
Doctors recommend adopting FAST test, in which-
F – Face- Does the face look crooked?
A – Arm- Is there weakness in lifting one arm?
S – Speech- Is there difficulty in speaking or is the voice wavering?
T – Time- If even one symptom is seen, call emergency immediately.
Why is immediate action necessary?
Every second is precious in a stroke. The sooner the patient is taken to the hospital, the more possible it is to prevent brain damage. Doctors say that ignoring these signs seen in the morning as fatigue, lack of sleep or general weakness can prove costly. If you or anyone at home sees such symptoms as soon as you wake up in the morning, then do not delay. Seek medical help immediately, because action taken at the right time can save life.
Also read: How dangerous is listening to loud music while driving, know what experts say?
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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