Stroke - symptoms, first signs

Strokes are of two types: ischemic (arising from the blockage of capillaries or arteries of the brain), and hemorrhagic (occur with rupture of vessels and hemorrhage). Most strokes, up to 80%, are ischemic. Survival and the possibility of recovery after a stroke directly depends on the timeliness of the provision of medical care, so it is extremely important to know the symptoms and the first signs that characterize this pathological condition.

The first signs and main symptoms of a stroke

Symptoms of stroke are divided into cerebral and focal.

Symptomatic symptoms include:

• disorders of consciousness, which can manifest as a stun, drowsiness, or, conversely, increased excitement, disorientation;
• asymmetrical headaches;
• dizziness, tinnitus ;
• nausea and vomiting;
• violation of coordination of movements;
• increased sweating;
• cardiopalmus.

Focal symptoms directly depend on what area of ​​the brain is affected, and can be expressed in:

• paresis;
• visual impairment;
• speech impairment;
• weakness, cramps or paralysis of limbs on one side of the body;
• violation of the symmetry of the face (paralysis of the facial muscles on one side).

Talk about the difference between symptoms and the first signs of stroke in men and women is not necessary, since the severity of the disease pattern depends solely on its severity and does not have specific characteristics in different sexes.

Symptoms and the first signs of a major stroke

With a large stroke affecting a large area of ​​the brain, the picture of the disease is quite clear. Common symptoms are always pronounced. The focal symptoms in the form of motor disorders, paralysis of muscles on one side of the body, speech disorders are mandatory. Possible changes in the nature of breathing, involuntary urination or defecation, the emergence of an epileptic fit. Quite often there are reactions from the eyes: involuntary movement of eyeballs, dilated pupils, lack of response to light.

If the first signs of a large stroke , against a background of loss of consciousness, are added such symptoms as weakening of breathing, dysfunction of the pupils' response to light, weakening of the heartbeat and reaction to stimuli, this indicates the development of coma. Forecasts in this case are extremely unfavorable.

Symptoms and the first signs of a mini-stroke

Small strokes, or, as they are also called in various sources, mini-or micro-strokes, occur when relatively small vessels have been blocked and account for up to 15% of all strokes. In ischemic stroke of this type, the first signs (headache, dizziness, impaired coordination) are not observed in severe form, and focal symptoms are either very poorly expressed or absent. Typically, neurologic symptoms completely pass through the month, but in the absence of proper treatment, such strokes may recur or develop into a vast stroke.

Diagnosis and first aid for signs of a stroke

When the first suspicious symptoms appear, you should test for signs of a stroke, for this:

1. The victim is asked to smile (with a stroke, the smile is asymmetrical, the corner of the mouth is lowered).
2. The victim is tested speech (in the pre-sultness state it is indistinct, similar to a drunk speech).
3. Asked to raise both hands simultaneously (a person may not be able to do it, or the level of raising hands is not the same).
4. If possible, blood pressure is measured (with stroke it is most often increased).

Self-treatment for symptoms of stroke is unacceptable, and at the first signs it is necessary to call an ambulance. Before an ambulance arrives, the patient must:

1. To provide peace.
2. Lay so that the head is above the rest of the body.
3. Provide free access to oxygen.
4. With increased blood pressure, it is possible to use antihypertensive drugs.