What is a stroke and how to recognize it.

A stroke is a serious problem that affects the brain. It happens when blood stops reaching a part of the brain or arrives in the wrong way. The brain, without blood and oxygen, stops working and brain cells die.

Types of stroke

• Ischemic stroke: a brain artery closes or blocks (it is the most common).

• Hemorrhagic stroke: an artery breaks and blood invades the brain.

Both are very serious and require immediate intervention.

The most common symptoms

Remembering the word FAST can help you recognize them:

• F – Face (Face): one side of the face droops, I can't smile normally.

• A – Arm (Arm): an arm doesn't lift or drops down.

• S – Speech (Speech): difficulty speaking or understanding.

• T – Time (Time): call 118 immediately, every minute is precious.

Other possible signs: sudden loss of vision, a severe headache never experienced before, dizziness, loss of balance.

Don't think “it won't happen to me”

Even young, athletic, and healthy people can have a stroke.
A friend of mine had one at 25 years old: for months he was stuck with half his body paralyzed.
Another acquaintance went to the hospital, but the doctors said it was something else. He spoke poorly, had part of his body paralyzed, and wasn't thinking clearly, but they sent him home. Only after three days, with a scan, they realized blood wasn't reaching his brain. It's already a miracle he's still alive.

Why it's important to act immediately

It's essential to get to the hospital within a few hours, because only then can they treat it.
And it's not only important for the person affected, but also for the family: every hour of delay, or doctors who downplay the symptoms, can change the life of the caregiver, forced to care for a disabled person forever.

If you have the symptoms, insist on getting tests. Be persistent, even calling the police if needed. Hospitals try to save money, but then the burden falls entirely on the family.

Remember an important thing

Someone who has a stroke often understands everything inside, even if they can't move or speak well. Don't underestimate them, don't treat them as if they don't understand. They deserve respect: they feel, understand, and suffer their condition.

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⚠️ Warning
This information is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. I share what I've learned from my experience and from people I've met. Each person can have different symptoms and treatments: if you have doubts or suspect symptoms, always call 118.