A stroke usually strikes those affected suddenly. But there are signs such as dizziness and headaches. Fast action is important now.
According to a recent survey by the opinion research institute Appinio, over 93 percent of people over 60 years of age surveyed fear illness and declining physical and mental fitness. A stroke, for example, is also one of them, because in severe cases it can completely change the lives of those affected. There are influencing factors that can promote a stroke - to know your individual risk, test yourself. Pay attention to these symptoms in yourself and in other people around you, because quick help can literally save lives. Younger people with certain blood types are particularly at risk.
Stroke: Acting quickly is important!
In more than 80 percent of cases, a stroke is caused by a blocked artery in the brain, which means that the nerve cells do not receive enough blood and oxygen and therefore die. Less commonly, a cerebral hemorrhage caused by a ruptured blood vessel is the cause of the cerebral infarction. The longer the stroke remains untreated, the larger the areas of the brain that die. And the more likely it is that the patient will have to deal with lifelong disabilities or even die.
If you notice specific signs in yourself or in people around you, do not hesitate to provide first aid and call an emergency doctor. A third of those affected die as a result within a year. A stroke is the third most common cause of death in Germany.
Stroke is imminent: five symptoms that you should act quickly on
If a stroke occurs, it is a life-threatening emergency and every minute counts. If you notice any of the following signs, call an emergency doctor immediately - even if it isn't a stroke, it's always better to be safe than sorry!
Stroke leads to vision problems
When you have a stroke, your vision becomes impaired. Those affected have blurred or double vision, can no longer orientate themselves, miss objects or cannot grasp them.
Stroke results in speech disorders
People who have a stroke suddenly speak haltingly, choppily, or “search” for the right words. In addition, her speech is slurred and slurred, her voice thin and quiet.
Stroke presents with symptoms of paralysis
If a person affected suddenly becomes paralyzed on one side - on the face with a drooping corner of the mouth, on the body with a hanging arm or a "fall asleep" foot - this can be a clear sign of an acute stroke. Get help immediately!
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Stroke leads to dizziness and unsteady gait
Another symptom of a stroke is sudden dizziness, which is often accompanied by unsteady gait. Those affected find it difficult to orientate themselves, have to support themselves or sit down, and complain of nausea.
Stroke presents with severe headaches
Severe headaches can also indicate an acute stroke, which is caused by circulatory problems in the affected brain region or bleeding into brain tissue. These severe headaches can even be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The same applies in this case: Don't hesitate for long, call the emergency number 112!
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.