When it comes to an acute stroke, you have to think about time. Remember that time is brain—it’s the best way to ensure a good outcome. Using the mnemonic device BE FAST (see below) can help you quickly identify a stroke and get to the nearest Emergency Department. Once you get there, they are going to ask you all about time! “When was the last time you felt normal?” or “When was the last time you took your medications?” Your answers to these important questions will help the Emergency physician make a quick and clear choice.
BE FAST! Use this easy tool when you’re trying to identify a stroke. If you have any of these symptoms, you should go to the nearest Emergency Department to be evaluated. As I mentioned, they will ask you when the last time you felt normal. This is important when determining your care. “Last known normal” is not the same as “when the symptoms began.” For example, if you woke up with symptoms, think about the time you went to bed—that would be your last known normal time
Be prepared! It’s a good idea to keep a card in your wallet with your current medications, medical and surgical history, and emergency contacts. This will give Emergency personnel easy access to the information they need to make the best decision for your care.
Be ready! You’ve learned that time is huge factor when it comes to treating a stroke. Now I’d like to talk about what will happen when you come to the Emergency Department with a suspected stroke. First, you will be taken to get a CT scan right away. Next, they will do blood work and place an intravenous line, and the provider will decide if you need another CT scan with IV contrast. The Emergency Department provider will work closely with a Neurologist (brain specialist) to determine if you are having a stroke and what the best treatment would be. Your provider may determine you need to take a medication called a thrombolytic—a clot buster. If they give you this medication, you will be observed for 24 hours in the ICU. If they see a blood clot in a larger vessel in the brain, they may also consider you for a procedure called a thrombectomy—removing a blood clot from a blood vessel.
Be strong! Rehabilitation is an essential part of recovering from a stroke. Providers from physical therapy, occupational therapy and/or speech therapy may give you exercises personalized to you. These exercises will help diminish the residual effects from the stroke.
Be knowledgeable! May is National Stroke Awareness Month. This is the time to empower yourself with knowledge to help yourself or a loved one. Join Garnet Health Medical Center stroke experts on May 18, 2022, at 7 p.m. on Zoom for a self-care forum, Act FAST. You’ll have the opportunity to hear from the experts in Neurology and Emergency Medicine and ask your questions!
Register below: