What to Do if Something Feels Off
If you think you might be experiencing a stroke, seek emergency medical care immediately. “The hallmark characteristic of a stroke is the sudden onset of symptoms,” says Gusler. If this happens, call 911 and go straight to the hospital.
Emergency treatments for stroke are extremely time-sensitive. “Treatment that’s given an hour after symptoms start is much more effective than treatment given four hours after symptoms start,” Gusler says. “If you wait, we could miss the window for effective emergency treatment.”
Dr. Simpkins adds that going to the hospital will also allow medical providers to ensure that the symptoms are not from another condition that can mimic stroke but may require different treatments.
Finally, Rhee says that even if you can’t speak, you should still dial 911. “Just mumble or hit the table,” he says. “They are trained to assume it’s an emergency and will send help to your location.”
If someone you know may be vulnerable, frail, or lives alone, he advises taking a moment to teach them how to activate SOS on their cellphone. “Most cellphones automatically call 911 after a countdown if you press the power button quickly five times,” Rhee says.
Source link