A ‘Stroke’ or ‘Brain Attack’ occurs when blood clots block oxygen-carrying blood vessels in the brain or when blood vessels in the brain burst from other causes, such as high blood pressure. The brain tissues and cells are damaged as a result. The majority of seniors over 65 years are affected by a stroke.
A stroke can cause fatality, severe disability, and lifelong brain damage. According to the World Stroke Organization, over 14 million individuals worldwide have a stroke every year.
A stroke can be brought on by a number of factors, but it often strikes quickly and without warning. People who already have a medical condition or who are genetically susceptible to heart attacks frequently experience it.
7 Things to Care for Stroke Patients
People who have had a stroke could abruptly lose their ability to move or speak. They can also have weakness and a confused appearance. You might not know how to react if you don’t have much experience with strokes and you might get panic.
It’s crucial to intervene quickly since a stroke can be fatal and result in lasting impairment. Here are some things you should and shouldn’t do if you think a loved one is experiencing a stroke.
1. Call 911 Immediately:
Driving the person to the hospital can be your first thought if they are having a stroke. However, it would be wise in this case to dial 911. An ambulance can arrive faster and transport the patient to the hospital.
Additionally, paramedics are prepared to manage a variety of emergency circumstances. On the journey to the hospital, they can provide vital support, thereby lessening the adverse effects of the stroke.
2. Mention “Stroke” While Calling an Ambulance:
While calling for an ambulance, make sure to tell the operator that you are suspecting that the person is experiencing a stroke. The paramedics, in this case, can assist you better and arrive with the required first aid. It will also help the hospital to prepare for emergency stroke treatment.
3. Watch Out for Symptoms:
A person experiencing a stroke might not be able to communicate while they are in the hospital. If you are doing stroke care at home, you must watch out for the symptoms. The more information you can give to the doctor, the better.
Keep a record of the symptoms, including when they started and how the person felt, did you start seeing them three hours ago? Be prepared to tell the hospital staff of any known medical issues the patient already has. These ailments might include diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure.
4. Ask The Person to Lay Down:
Encourage the person to lie down on their side with their head raised if they are sitting or standing. The brain receives more blood when in this posture. However, if the individual has fallen, do not move them. During stroke care, extra clothing layers should be removed to make them feel comfortable.
5. Keep Talking with The Person:
A person experiencing a stroke might lose the ability to speak. Try talking to the person and gathering as much information from the individual as you can while they are still able to speak while you wait for the ambulance to come. Find out if they have any known allergies, health issues, or drugs they are taking.
6. Stay Calm:
The situation can be frightening. However, staying calm is a very crucial aspect of stroke care. Being composed of your thoughts will make it simpler for you to speak with the 911 operator as well as the paramedics.
7. Perform CPR If Needed:
During a stroke, some people may lose consciousness. If this occurs, make sure that the person is still breathing. CPR should be initiated if a pulse cannot be felt. The 911 operator can assist you through the procedure if you don’t know how to conduct CPR.
3 Things You Shouldn’t Do If Someone Is Having a Stroke
Home care for stroke patients can be critical. Below are some things you should not do if you suspect that a person is having a stroke.
1. Don’t Let the Person Drive:
Stroke symptoms might first be undetectable. The individual may feel uncomfortable yet not think they are having a stroke. If you are doing stroke care at home, don’t allow the individual to drive themselves to the hospital. While you wait for assistance, dial 911.
2. Don’t Do Self-Medication:
Self-medication can make things go worse. We know in most cases; a stroke is caused by a blood clot. Even though aspirin thins the blood, it should not be given to someone who is experiencing a stroke.
A ruptured blood artery in the brain can also potentially result in a stroke. Home care for stroke patients doesn’t allow inexperienced caregivers to do any medication by themselves. Since you don’t know what kind of stroke a patient is experiencing, self-medication could make bleeding worse.
3. Don’t Give Any Food or Drink:
If a person is exhibiting stroke symptoms, don’t give them anything to eat or drink. In some cases, stroke can result in paralysis since it causes muscle weakness throughout the body. The person might not be able to swallow hence there is a risk of choking on food or drink.
Key Takeaway:
Stroke care is challenging. If you are doing stroke care at home, you must be very vigilant. Stroke symptoms might not be detectable but you should always be prepared to deal with any emergency situation.
If you think a person is having a stroke, don’t wait for the symptoms to get better. Immediately call an ambulance since a stroke can cause life-long disability or can even be fatal.
However, individuals have a considerably greater chance of making a full recovery if they visit the hospital quickly after seeing symptoms and receiving the proper care.
Considracare provides live-in care & specialized stroke care depending upon the needs of the patient. Our caregivers are trained to ensure a better quality of life, safety, and comfort for your loved one.
