Warning Signs of a Stroke
Having a stroke can happen to anyone at any time. And you may not know what is happening to you until it’s too late. Fortunately, strokes produce warning signs before the actual stroke occurs. It is extremely important to be aware of these signs when having a stroke. If you are seeking stroke rehabilitation on Long Island, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation of Long Island will be able to assist you today.
What is a Stroke?
In order to recognize the signs of a stroke, you first need to know what a stroke is. A stroke occurs when the blood flow is cut off to an area of the brain. Since the brain cells are deprived of oxygen, the cells begin to die and the abilities controlled by the affected areas are lost. A stroke can occur in any part of the brain, so how a person is affected by a stroke can vary. For example, a minor stroke may only result in problems such as temporary weakness in the arm or leg; while a major stroke may cause the person to lose functionality in one or both sides of their body. Rehabilitation is important after experiencing a stroke in order to help gain back muscle control. Consider Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation of Long Island if you are looking for stroke rehabilitation on Long Island.
Warning Signs of a Stroke
Due to the fact that a stroke cuts off blood flow, getting treatment right away is essential to reducing your risk of developing brain damage or disability. An easy way to remember and recognize the signs of a stroke is to use the FAST test to check for symptoms:
- Face: smile in a mirror and see if one side of your face droops.
- Arms: raise both of your arms and check to see if one of your arms is dropping down.
- Speech: try to say short phrases and check for slurred or strange speech.
- Time: if you or a loved one has any of these signs, call 911 immediately and write down the time the symptoms started.
How We Can Help
Having a stroke can be scary; however, knowing these warning signs can help reduce your risk of developing brain damage, or obtaining various disabilities. After a stroke, rehabilitation is important to help with any damage that the stroke may have caused. Contact Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation of Long Island if you may need stroke rehabilitation on Long Island.
