“BE FAST” in a Stroke Emergency

A stroke is one of the most common causes of death in India. An acute stroke is called a brain attack and is a medical emergency. The patient has to be taken immediately to the hospital to get stroke treatment.

Acute Stroke Due to a Blood Clot

A clot in a blood vessel leading to the brain can cut off blood supply to the brain, causing a stroke. It is imperative to get the blood pumping to the brain again as soon as possible to prevent brain damage or other neural complications.

Acute Stroke Due to a Bleed

When there is a bleed in the blood vessel, it can cause a hemorrhage. This can lead to edema. The swelling around the brain, compressing it can also cause brain damage and neural complications.

Why Is Speed Essential After a Stroke?

When a person has a stroke, there is a small window of 3 to 4.5 hours by which time treatment for stroke should be administered.

If the reason for the stroke is a clot, a clot-busting medication will be administered immediately to dissolve the clot and get the blood pumping into the brain again. If it is due to a bleed, medication can be given or a procedure done to prevent or decrease the swelling in the brain to minimize the risk of brain damage.

In either case, immediate transfer to a hospital with a neurologist on call is important.

Also Read: What is a stroke? – Prevention, Treatment and Recovery

BE FAST

BE FAST is a mnemonic to help detect and enhance responsiveness to the needs of a person having a stroke. The acronym stands for balance, eyes, facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulties and time to call emergency services.

Be fast and prevent stroke complications.

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