The fear surrounding Covid-19 is warranted, as it is affecting many lives around the world. However, this is also causing some people to postpone medical care due to fear of contracting Covid-19. Heart attacks and strokes are classified as medical emergencies and need prompt treatment. In some cases, there may only be a limited amount of window before potentially life-threatening complications arise. So, the sooner a person seeks medical treatment, the better. That is why it is very important to know the signs and symptoms of stroke and heart attack.
Signs of a Stroke
While some stroke symptoms can fly under the radar, most often a person will display outward signs. An individual who is experiencing these symptoms may not know right away that they are having stroke symptoms, but someone around them may notice. It is important that if someone you know is displaying these symptoms, it is important to get them the medical care that they need. Do not allow this person to drive themselves to the hospital. Instead, call an ambulance or drive them yourself. Here are common symptoms that an individual may experience when they are having a stroke.
- Sudden numbness or weakness. This may occur in the face, arms, or legs. This sometimes affects only one side of the body, but can affect both sides.
- Confusion, difficulty understanding speech, and difficulty speaking.
- Blurred or double vision.
- Lack of coordination, dizziness, and loss of balance.
- Severe headache.
Signs of a Heart Attack
Heart attack symptoms may mimic symptoms of other conditions. It is important that you do not try to self-diagnose yourself from home. This would include researching symptoms and settling on a diagnosis that you found yourself. A medical professional will be the only one who will be able to tell what symptoms you are demonstrating and why. Some signs of a heart attack are listed below.
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
- Pain in the chest area, which may feel like tightness.
- Overall weakness or fatigue.
- Pain in one or both arms, which may also be in the shoulders.
- Pain in the jaw or neck area.
- Lightheadedness or dizziness.
- Cold sweats.
Delaying Treatment for a Stroke or Heart Attack
When a stroke or heart attack occurs, it is because some of the vital functions of your body are not working properly. In order to help them to get back to working properly and prevent potentially irreversible damage, it is essential to get medical treatment immediately. Delaying treatment could cause brain damage, as well as death of tissues. This could lead to further issues down the road, including death.
Get Treatment as Soon as You Can
If you notice signs that you may be experiencing a heart attack or stroke, it is imperative to seek medical attention and visit Sacred Heart Emergency Center as soon as you can. Proper and timely treatment can help limit the potentially serious complications that can go alongside with these conditions.