Lightning Reaction: How to Recognize a Stroke by Three Symptoms and Save a Person 0 14

A stroke occurs when the brain stops receiving enough blood, leading to the death of neurons. Medical professionals identify two main types: ischemic, which accounts for about 80% of cases, and hemorrhagic, which occurs in approximately 20% of situations.

How to recognize it and what to do was reported by the Ministry of Health. This condition requires immediate medical assistance, as every minute is crucial.

First Alarming Signs of a Stroke

Among the first signs, sudden disorientation is often observed, where a person loses understanding of their location and what is happening. Severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness often occur.

A characteristic symptom is weakness on one side of the body — either right or left — as well as loss of sensation in the limbs. Speech becomes unclear, and vision may deteriorate, manifesting as blurriness or strabismus. In such cases, there is no time to waste, as every minute counts.

A Simple Test to Recognize a Stroke

To quickly check for signs of a stroke, a simple test is used: ask the person to speak, smile, and raise their arms. If they cannot clearly pronounce words, their smile is asymmetrical, or their limbs do not rise, this is a serious signal.

Additionally, loss of balance, sudden weakness, falling without apparent reason, and neck muscle spasms that make it difficult to tilt the head may be observed. These signs require immediate action.

What to Do Until the Ambulance Arrives

First and foremost, immediately call an ambulance and clearly describe all observed symptoms. Then, act according to the dispatcher’s instructions, ensuring the victim is as calm as possible.

The person should be laid on a flat surface, provided with fresh air by opening windows and unbuttoning tight clothing. The head, neck, and back should be kept in one position, and any movements should be strictly limited.

It is categorically forbidden to give food or drinks to avoid vomiting and the risk of choking. If vomiting occurs, the head should be turned to the side or the person should be rolled onto their side, carefully monitoring the tongue to ensure it does not block the airway.

In case of breathing difficulties, immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation should be initiated. This includes chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth artificial respiration.

First Aid Rules for Stroke

When performing chest compressions on an adult, a rate of 60–70 compressions per minute should be maintained. After every 15 compressions, 2 breaths are given.

If two people are providing assistance, a different rhythm is allowed — 1 breath for every 5 compressions. The effectiveness of the actions can be checked by the pulse on the carotid artery and the movements of the chest.

Who is at Risk and How to Prevent a Stroke

The common belief that a stroke is only a problem for elderly people is not true. Those who lead an unhealthy lifestyle are also at risk.

Risk factors include smoking, alcohol abuse, drug addiction, low physical activity, obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. A separate risk group consists of people who have already suffered a stroke or transient ischemic attack.

Experts note that prevention includes dietary control, regular physical activity, and quitting harmful habits. These simple measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing this dangerous condition.

When Flashes in the Eyes are a Warning Signal

Lightning, flickering, or "sparks" in front of the eyes can sometimes indicate serious health problems. Isolated flashes often occur due to fatigue, stress, or bright light.

However, frequent and intense "sparks" may indicate issues with the retina, blood vessels, or nervous system. In such cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis.