Friday 25 May 2007

Recognizing a Stroke

As published by most of the heart & stroke associations, the 5 hallmark warning signs of a stroke are:

- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

If you experience these symptoms, or know someone who is - Immediately call 9-11 or whatever the emergency services number is where you are. Chances of recovery with minimal disability is GREATLY enhanced if the victim reaches hospital within 3 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Spread the word to everyone you know - especially to all in regular contact with elderly individuals. Too many victims could have been better off if they or those around them were able to sooner recognize the combination of symptoms as what they were and called for medical help.

Heart & Stroke conditions are the leading causes of death and disability in Canada. For more information on risk factors, and what you can do help prevent your chances of developing complications - visit http://www.heartandstroke.ca

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