First Aid: Storke

Stoke is a condition in which the brain is deprived of oxygen and blood flow do to a clot or bleed inside the brain. A person suffering from a stroke will have neurological symptoms or deficits usually isolated to one side or part of the body. They may become confused, be unable to speak, or disorientated. Many victims will be unable to use one side of their body. Often victims will have reported or complained of a headache prior to the event. If you think someone is having a stroke you should call 911 immediately. Time is very important as certain treatments can only be given in the first few hours of a stroke. Like heart attack, many victims will be in denial that they are suffering from a stroke. You as a rescuer must act if they fail to act for themselves.