Disabilities

» redback - What to do if you think you are having a stroke?

I've only just chanced on the article that triggered this discussion. Maybe, like Elvis, you've left the building.

The way I see it, the natures of immediate causes of death are pretty restrictive so I'm not surprised if 'stroke' makes it to the top 3. Heart failure is another one. The primary cause of death needs examination.

"Also, it is common for a person who is having a stroke to be in denial about it?"

Here's a link to a person's testimony:
http://www.mydr.com.au/default.asp?artic...

I suspect confusion is a common symptom so insight, not denial is the issue to ponder. And I have to wonder with your question...which bystander are they denying it too? There is a condition called anasognosia which is loosely, selective insight. This is not about having a stroke but what they make of their surroundings...and relates to brain damage. 'Denial' is a deliberate act.

Apart from increasing awareness per articles like that here...we all really need to ensure our first aid skills remain current. The first few hours are critical.

"Every stroke is different. The symptoms and effects vary according to the type of stroke, the part of the brain affected and the size of the damaged area. For some people the effects are severe, for some mild. Usually the symptoms come on suddenly but they may come on during sleep."
http://www.brainaustralia.org.au/stroke/...

The Brain Foundation's quality Aussie website above answers the question posed in the topic.

-- posted by redback