Recognizing the Symptoms of a Stroke: What You Need to Know

A stroke is an event that has a life-changing impact; recognition of early symptoms becomes very important for quick treatment and better results. At La Vie Executive Health Centre, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge to help take control of their health. As Ottawa’s leading private healthcare provider, our team consists of very experienced Ottawa private doctors who are dedicated to offering personalized care and support. In this blog, we will discuss the symptoms of a stroke and the importance of intervention early on, along with how our private clinics in Ottawa can help keep you healthy and informed.

Understanding Stroke: A Brief Overview

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is either blocked or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die, so stroke is always a medical emergency. Fast action at the first signs of a stroke can save a life, as well as improve the chances for a better recovery. Strokes basically fall into two main types:

• Ischemic stroke: This type of stroke occurs when an artery to the brain is blocked.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: When there is a rupture of one of the blood vessels within the brain, blood flows into or around the tissues of the brain.

Know the Warning Signs of Stroke

The symptoms of a stroke may differ depending on the type and severity, but there are common signs you should look for. One easy way to remember these key symptoms is through the acronym FAST:

• Face Drooping: The face droops or feels numb on one side. Ask the victim to smile and see if their smile is lopsided.
• Arm Weakness: One arm may feel weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one drifts downward.
• Speech Difficulty: Slurred speech, besides the inability to speak or talk. Ask them to repeat a simple sentence that would show any speech problems.
• Time to Call 911: If someone has any of these symptoms, even if they go away, call 911 right away. When treating a stroke, time is of the essence.

Other Symptoms to Look Out For

While the FAST acronym mostly covers common symptoms, some strokes can express themselves otherwise. Here are additional signs:

• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech.
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Why Early Intervention is Important

Early intervention can reduce the amount of damage done to the brain by a stroke. When persons receive treatment quickly enough, they have an excellent opportunity to recover. Commencement of medical treatment without wasting even a moment can prevent disability and enhance any chances one can get back complete functionality. It is this that our private doctors at La Vie Executive Health Centre pay attention to in Ottawa: relatively rapid care, with the best possible outcome achieved for stroke-stricken patients.

How La Vie Executive Health Centre Can Help

With a dedication to providing all dimensions of care in preventing, diagnosing, and treating stroke, La Vie Executive Health Centre serves as an Ottawa-based, private healthcare clinic. We have a team of private family doctors in Ottawa who are willing to give you the kind of care that you need, specific to your condition. Some of the ways in which we can support you are:

• Preventive Care: Routine health assessments and risk factor identification with subsequent strategizing of lessening your risk of strokes.
• Emergency Response: Our team is fully prepared to respond in case of an emergency and shall see that immediate treatment is provided and, if necessary, coordinate hospitalization in local hospitals.
• Rehabilitation Services: We have access to rehabilitation services in order to assist you in managing your recovery. Regain as much function and independence as possible.
• Ongoing Support: Our private doctors in Ottawa perform continuous care and support; they monitor your health and give all necessary adjustments for the treatment inline. 

Conclusion 

It is often the case that fast recognition of stroke symptoms, followed by fast action to seek care, can be life-saving. Our team at La Vie Executive Health Centre is spirited towards delivering quality care and support to our patients. Our private Ottawa clinics consist of doctors who take maintaining your health and keeping you informed very seriously. If you are worried about your health or want more information on stroke prevention, contact us. Curious about what we can do or want to schedule a visit? Check out our website or call us today. With stroke, remember, every second counts, and the signs can make all the difference.