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Recognizing A Stroke
by Dr. David L. Wick, D.C.

One serious dysfunction of the nervous system that is a medical emergency is a stroke. Stroke is the number three killer in the United States, and needs to be recognized and treated quickly because, as stated by the American Stroke Association, "time lost is brain lost."

The American Stroke Association lists the following STROKE WARNING SIGNS:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

If you or someone you know experiences the above symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher. If you question whether someone you know is having a stroke, you may also find the following questions useful:

1. Ask the individual to SMILE.
2. Ask the individual to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
3. Ask the individual to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE. (This should be spoken coherently, such as "It is sunny outside today.")

If the person you are questioning has trouble with any of these three things, call 9-1-1 immediately. Remember, when it comes to strokes, "time lost is brain lost."

For more information on strokes, be sure to visit the website of the American Stroke Association.

This article is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of any illness. Diagnosis and treatment of all health conditions should only be performed by your doctor of chiropractic or other licensed health care professional. Please use this article for informational purposes only. This information does not replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare provider.