First Aid for Stoke

A stroke (also called apoplexy) usually involves a spontaneous rupture of a blood vessel in the brain or formation of a clot that interferes with circulation.

A. Major stroke

1. Signs and symptoms

1. Unconsciousness
2. Paralysis or weakness on one side of the body
3. Difficulty in breathing and in swallowing
4. Loss of bladder and bowel control
5. Pupils of the eyes unequal in size
6. Lack of ability to talk or slurring of speech

2. First Aid for Stroke

1. Provide moderate covering.
2. Maintain an open airway.
3. Give artificial respiration if indicated.
4. Position the victim on his side so that secretions will drain from the side of the mouth.
5. Call a doctor for medical advice as quickly as possible.
6. Do not give fluids unless the victim is fully conscious and able to swallow and unless medical care will be delayed a long time.

B. Minor stroke

In a minor stroke, small blood vessels in the brain are involved. These usually do not produce unconsciousness, and the symptoms depend upon the location of the hemorrhage and the amount of brain damage.

1. Symptoms

The minor stroke may occur during sleep and be accompanied by—

• Headache
• Confusion
• Slight dizziness; ringing in the ears
• Other mild complaints

Later, there may be—

• 1. Minor difficulties in speech

• 2. Memory changes

• 3. Weakness in an arm or leg

• 4. Some disturbance in the normal pattern of the personality.

2. First aid

1. Protect the victim against accident or physical exertion.
2. Suggest medical attention.

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