Stroke is a condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is stopped or disrupted. When the brain doesn't get enough oxygen and nutrients from the bloodstream, brain cells begin to die within minutes. This can cause permanent damage to brain function and potentially result in motor, speech, thinking disorders, as well as changes in a person's behavior and emotions.
Signs and symptoms of stroke can vary depending on how severe the condition is. Some common signs and symptoms to look out for are:
- Difficulty speaking or disrupted speech. Stroke sufferers often have difficulty conveying words clearly or understanding other people's speech.
- Paralysis or weakness. One side of the body can be severely affected, so that stroke sufferers cannot move part of their body. For example, stroke sufferers may experience paralysis in one arm or leg or both
- Coordination and balance disorders. Stroke sufferers can experience difficulty walking or carrying out certain movements due to impaired coordination and balance.
- Difficulty seeing. Stroke sufferers can experience double vision, impaired vision in one eye, or loss of vision on one side.
- Difficulty swallowing. Stroke sufferers often have difficulty swallowing food or drink.
- Severe headache. Severe and unexplained headaches can be a sign of stroke, especially if accompanied by other signs and symptoms.
- Consciousness is disturbed. Stroke sufferers may experience impaired consciousness, such as confusion, lethargy, or difficulty staying awake.
If you or someone around you experiences these signs or symptoms, immediately seek medical help. Because, treating stroke quickly and appropriately can reduce the severity of the patient.
Article written by dr. Astrid Ayodya Pattinama, Sp.N (Nerve Specialist at EMC Pekayon Hospital).