A stroke can happen to people of any age, at any time, and often without any warning. It’s important to know what to watch for and what to do if you or a loved one experiences a stroke.

At Amory Urgent Care, we want you to be informed and prepared. We offer convenient, high-quality urgent care 7 days a week in Starkville, MS.

If you or a family member is experiencing signs of a stroke, including facial drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech, or sudden confusion, call 911. A stroke is a life-threatening condition, and every minute counts.

What Is a Stroke?

A stroke is sometimes referred to as a “brain attack,” much like a heart attack. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.

In an ischemic stroke, blood flow to part of the brain is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This can result in damage to brain tissue.

In a hemorrhagic stroke, a blood vessel bursts or bleeds into the brain tissue. This results in increased pressure on brain tissue, which causes damage.

Both types of stroke are medical emergencies. If not caught and treated quickly, brain damage and serious complications can result. In some cases, a stroke can be fatal.

Am I Having a Stroke? Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

Being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke is one of the most important things you can do to help a stroke victim.

The popular “FAST” acronym may help you remember the most common signs of a stroke. The letters stand for face, arms, speech, and time.

Facial Weakness. Ask the person to smile. Does part of their face droop?

Arms. Ask them to raise both arms and hold them extended. Does one of their arms slowly drift down? Are they unable to raise one arm?

Speech. Is their speech slurred, or are they having difficulty speaking or understanding you? Ask them to repeat a simple phrase.

Time. Strokes are time-sensitive, and if you notice any one of these signs of a stroke, call 911 right away. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in minimizing brain damage and long-term disability or even preventing death.

In addition to these three common stroke symptoms, watch for these other possible signs and symptoms:

Difficulty walking.
Numbness or weakness on one side of the body, including hands, legs, or feet.
Vision changes, including blurred vision.
Sudden confusion or memory loss.
A severe, sudden headache.
Sudden unsteadiness, lightheadedness, dizziness, or falling.

If you notice one of these symptoms, call 911 for emergency help.

Going to an ER vs. Urgent Care for a Stroke

One key difference between urgent care and an emergency room is the types of illness each can treat. Whereas urgent care is an excellent choice for non-life-threatening problems like fevers, minor fractures, ear infections, bladder infections, cuts, and many more, serious and emergent problems like a stroke need to be managed in an ER.

If you or a family member are experiencing the signs and symptoms of a stroke, an emergency room is the best choice. ERs are equipped with the diagnostic imaging equipment (including a CT scanner) and emergency medications and interventions that are critical in diagnosing and treating this life-threatening condition.

With Amory Urgent Care, top-tier medical care is convenient and close to home. We provide a wide range of urgent care services 7 days a week, with walk-in visits and shorter wait times. Visit us for efficient, excellent medical care.