ST. LOUIS – Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability. Stroke treatment is time sensitive, and the first few hours are key to preventing irreparable outcomes.
According to Dr. Guillermo Linares, a neurologist at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital, strokes occur when a blockage or bleeding interrupts the brain’s blood supply, potentially having serious repercussions.
Linares says recognizing stroke symptoms early is crucial.
“Even though technology has advanced and medications are available, if we do not initiate therapy promptly after symptoms begin, the therapies are not as effective,” he said. “Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke is probably the most important thing because this would allow you to seek medical care.”
Warning signs often include paralysis, numbness, trouble speaking and vision problems. Neurologists use the acronym F-A-S-T to help patients identify strokes quickly.
“F for face, A for arm, S for speech, and T for time,” Linares said.
Getting to the ER within the first few hours can make a huge difference in your survival and recovery, despite advancements in medications and technology. SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital is a designated stroke center, along with many of the SSM Health community hospitals. Paramedics are required to drive patients to the nearest designated stroke center.
“The sooner you get there, the higher the likelihood that the stroke center, that the physicians that are caring for you, the nurses are going to be able to do something to help you avoid disability, avoid death, and go back to a life that is normal and full of love and happiness,” Linares said.
Post-stroke rehabilitation includes physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
Patients can reduce the risk of having a stroke by quitting smoking, eating health food, maintaining a healthy weight, taking prescribed medications and being physically active.
If you have questions or need to know more about the signs and symptoms of stroke, click here.
The SSM Health Medical Minute airs Wednesdays on STL News 11 at 7 p.m. and FOX 2 News at 9 p.m.
