The cerebral stroke manifests itself most of the time suddenly, and those affected are risking their lives. To guarantee an effective treatment and an optimal healing, it is necessary to intervene quickly. How do you recognize a stroke and how should you behave in such an event?
Every year, around 16,000 people in Switzerland are affected by a stroke. One in four, after the episode, is no longer able to lead a self-sufficient life. Stroke is due, among other things, to a narrowing of the carotid or a cerebral artery, an obstruction of the vessels or a cerebral hemorrhage. Hypertension and some particular disturbances of the heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation) predispose to stroke; other risk factors are alcohol, smoking, and diabetes, as they promote arteriosclerosis.
It is absolutely essential to interpret the symptoms correctly since in the case of a stroke every second is crucial. Timely intervention can save lives and prevent long-term disability.
How do you recognize a stroke?
Frequent symptoms of a stroke are visual disturbances, language disorders and difficulty in understanding speech, paralysis and reduced sensitivity, headache, and dizziness.
With this little test, even those who do not have medical knowledge can recognize stroke symptoms. If you suspect that someone has been affected, ask them to:
• ordered
• raise your arms
• formulate a simple sentence (eg the weather is nice)
If the person has difficulty doing one or more of these things, the ambulance must be called immediately. Until the ambulance arrives, the person should remain relaxed in a comfortable position with a raised torso. It is not recommended to feed or drink, as often the stroke also causes problems with swallowing. In such circumstances, it is essential to remain calm.