Know the signs of a stroke
Oct 4, 2002
We all have people in our lives who are a constant presence, even if we don't see them every day.
My aunt Bette Passalacqua was that sort of person. She made a point to see me on every birthday and always sent me cards for special occasions. She and my Uncle Joe always were a special part of the celebration -- and not just because of the present!
As my 33rd birthday passed Wednesday, I couldn't help but think of her like I have on every birthday since she died in 1994. She always was a very strong woman -- especially after she had a stroke in 1990.
In those four years, she was just as feisty and active as she had been all my life. Before the stroke, she walked a mile every day. After the stroke she remained active -- she went to physical therapy and had to walk with a cane, but she drove her car again and enjoyed bowling.
Most people know someone who has had a stroke. Every 53 seconds someone in America has one -- according to the American Stroke Association -- and every 3.3 minutes, someone dies of one.
But if you asked most people to define what exactly a stroke is, they may have a hard time. I know I would have before Wednesday's Choose to Move meeting.
According to the American Heart Association:
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel bringing oxygen and nutrients to the brain bursts or is clogged by a blood clot or some other particle. Because of this rupture, or blockage, part of the brain doesn't get the flow of blood it needs. Deprived of oxygen, nerve cells in the affected area of the brain can't function and die within minutes. When nerve cells can't function, the part of the body they control can't function either. The effects of stroke often are permanent because dead brain cells aren't replaced.
The association says the warning signs are:
* 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 are having a stroke, you may become confused so these warning signs might not help you, says American Heart Association Executive Director Dick Mattia. But if you know the signs, you may be able to help someone else.
Mattia says the first thing to do is to call 9-1-1 or whatever emergency medical number applies to your area. If you're not sure what the number is, find out today.
It may be the difference between life and death.
Colleen Passalacqua is the Observer-Dispatch features editor. She is participating in Choose to Move -- Energy for a Better Life, sponsored by the American Heart Association, Utica Roadrunners and the Sitrin Family of Services. Her column appears Fridays during the program. E-mail her at (cpassala@utica.gannett.com).
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