F.A.S.T .... Lesson on Stroke by Osahon Okodugha

 Dear Aunty Nurse Readers,

In the previous post I talked about hypertension and the likely end result of a badly managed case. My friend and physiotherpist, Osahon Okodugha, wishes to shed more light on the subject of stroke. Please read carefully.

"The public perception and knowledge of stroke in Nigeria is crammed with misconceptions and erroneous beliefs, research has shown that a good number of Nigerians believe stroke to be caused by witches and evil spirits, which is attributed to the “bizarre” and sudden onset of signs and symptoms associated with stroke, some also believe that stroke can be sexually transmitted, and only adults suffer from stroke.

The Author: Osahon Okodugha

In simple terms, stroke is the rapid loss of brain function due to disturbance in the blood supply to the brain. This can be due to either a lack of blood flow caused by blockage, or a haemorrhage .ie bleeding (internally or externally). As a result, the affected area of the brain cannot function, which usually results in an inability to move one or more limbs on one side of the body, inability to understand or formulate speech, or an inability to see one side of the visual field. Note that a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) should not be confused with a stroke, as a TIA is sometimes called a “mini-stroke”, with stroke symptoms that last less than 24 hours before disappearing. TIAs generally do not cause permanent brain damage, they are a serious warning sign of stroke and should not be ignored. 

A stroke is a medical emergency and can cause permanent neurological damage and death. Factors that put individuals at a risk of stroke include old age (risk increases with age, but is not limited by age) , high blood pressure, previous mini stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco smoking and heart defects. High blood pressure is the most important modifiable risk factor of stroke. As you can see, there is proof that stroke is not caused by witchcraft, sexually transmitted or occurs only in adults.

So how do you recognize a stroke, and what can u do to help?  When faced with what you suspect is a stroke, think F.A.S.T

FACE – Does one side of the face droop?

A RMS – Is one arm weak or numb?
S PEECH – Is the speech slurred?
T IME – Time is critical.

When stroke is confirmed, place the patient on their side on the floor in the recovery position so saliva will drain out of their mouth and loosen neckties or clothing that may restrict breathing. Simultaneously call for anyone in earshot to ring an ambulance, and state it’s a stroke emergency (For Lagos state, LASAMBUS & LASEMS,  have an easy-to-remember phone hotline-123) . If they are convulsing protect them from colliding with hard or sharp objects, next, Clear their airway so they can breathe and make sure their tongue has not blocked their airway. Do not place anything in their mouth. Do not give any fluids as they may choke to death. Upon arrival, the paramedics will ask a number of questions relating to the patient’s medical history including allergies. Sit with the patient and comfort them until the ambulance arrives. Above all do not panic, as this will heighten the patients anxiety and raise blood pressure. There are generally three separate stages of treatment for stroke: prevention, therapy immediately after stroke, and post-stroke rehabilitation.

Although there is no cure, most stroke victims now have a good chance for survival and recovery. Immediate treatment, supportive care, and rehabilitation can all improve the quality of life for stroke victims."

Have a lovely day,

Aunty Nurse Cares