Stroke is the number one disabler in our country and the number three killer. According to the American Stroke Association, the ischemic stroke (ones where a blood clot blocks an artery and oxygen cannot get to cell) accounts for about 83%.
I recently heard a discussion of a book, My Stroke of Insight (by Jill Bolte Taylor, PhD,) on public radio. Dr. Taylor experienced an ischemic stroke and writes (from the viewpoint of a neuroanatomist) about the experience and her recovery. You can find the book at www.amazon.com.
Dr. Taylor told the radio audience that a stroke is an acute medical event, and anyone experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, should get to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible. Ischemic strokes can be treated with blood clot dissolving medications that lessen the effects of the stroke if treatment is begun within 3 hours of the stroke.
Memorize these warning signs:
S–Speech, slurring, or problems with language
T–Tingling, or numbness in your body
R–Remembering, or problems with thinking
O–Off-balance, or problems with coordination
K–Killer headache
E–Eyes, or problems with vision
Stroke is a medical emergency. Dial 911.
Seniors’ Choice at Home, a Twin Cities homemaker/companion program has provided help for persons recovering from a stoke in nursing homes, assisted livings, and, after rehab, at home. Check out our website at www.seniorschoicemn.com, or call Marilyn at 763-546-1599 for more information.
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