This post hits close to home, but it’s so important that lay people understand the signs and risk factors for stroke.

As a chiropractor trained heavily in neurology, I’ve spent years understanding and training to recognize when someone may be having a stroke. Despite my training, my wife suffered multiple strokes over the course of 3-4 days, and I was only able to catch the largest and most recent one.

Survival and recovery from stroke heavily depend on early recognition and treatment, and depending on the location of the stroke, a matter of minutes can mean the difference between life and death.

Signs of Stroke
The most common signs involve looking for facial dropping, arm weakness, and speech issues.

However, other serious signs include alterations in consciousness/awareness, nystagmus, and unsteadiness in walking and balance.

What makes stroke unique from other problems is that these signs will present suddenly and out of nowhere.

You can also combine the signs and symptoms with a patient history of risk factors.

Big risk factors are any history of high blood pressure, artery disease, and heart disease.

Also be aware if someone is taking medications like blood thinners or birth control which can contribute to stroke risk.

Lastly, a recent history of infection or a recent autoimmune flare up can increase risk of stroke.

Strokes can be scary, and it can be terrifying to see a loved one show these signs. However, it is survivable and can be treated when recognized and treated early.

After the acute threat of stroke is over, a plan for comprehensive neurological rehabilitation can drastically improve a survivor’s life.