Four-step stroke test that might save your life
When a stroke occurs, you’ve got about three hours.
That’s one of the key details contained in an e-mail a friend forwarded to me last week. You might have received it too – it appears to be making the rounds. And of course I always check these things out to verify their authenticity.
This one originated at the School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine. And one neurologist there says the effects of a stroke are manageable if the patient i s treated within three hours of the onset of a stroke. I think we can assume he’s referring to ischemic stroke (caused by a blocked artery), as opposed to a hemorrhagic stroke (caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain).
Quick diagnosis of a stroke is essential. But this can be difficult because early signs are often subtle. If irregular behavior raises suspicions of a stroke, here’s an easy four-step stroke test that can help you spot a problem:
1) Ask the suspected victim to smile
2) Ask him to repeat a simple sentence
3) Ask him to raise both arms
4) Ask him to stick out his tongue straight out
If any one of the four tests can’t be completed, call 911 immediately and describe symptoms to the dispatcher.
Then be ready to move quickly. The quicker the better.
To Your Good Health,
Jenny Thompson
