When it comes to the health and safety of older adults, carers, and lone workers, being able to quickly recognise the signs of a heart attack or stroke is essential. These medical emergencies can be life-threatening, and the faster help is sought, the better the chances for recovery. In this blog, we’ll explore the common symptoms of both heart attacks and strokes, how to differentiate between them, and when to seek immediate medical help.
The Importance of Quick Action
The phrase "time is muscle" is often used in reference to heart attacks, while "time is brain" is used for strokes. This highlights how critical it is to act fast in these situations. For individuals with dementia, elderly patients, carers, or lone workers, the ability to recognise and respond to a heart attack or stroke could be the difference between life and death.
According to the NHS, heart disease and stroke are among the leading causes of death in the UK, with stroke alone accounting for about 1 in 5 deaths. Understanding the signs of these conditions and knowing when to act can drastically improve outcomes.
Recognizing a Heart Attack
A heart attack (also called a myocardial infarction) happens when the blood flow to part of the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle. Here are the common signs to look out for:
Chest Pain or Discomfort
The most classic symptom of a heart attack is a sensation of pain or tightness in the chest. This can feel like pressure, fullness, or a squeezing sensation. Although the pain may fluctuate, it typically persists for several minutes.
Shortness of Breath
If the heart is not pumping efficiently, it can lead to fluid backing up in the lungs. This can cause difficulty breathing, a feeling of breathlessness, or the inability to catch one’s breath, especially with activity.
Pain in Other Areas of the Body
Although chest pain is most common, discomfort can radiate to other areas of the body, including the arms, back, neck, jaw, and stomach. For elderly individuals, this may be mistaken for something less severe, such as indigestion.
Cold Sweat or Dizziness
A sudden feeling of nausea, lightheadedness, or sweating, especially if accompanied by any of the other symptoms, is a critical sign of a potential heart attack.
Fatigue or Weakness
Some people experience unusual tiredness or fatigue, which may come on suddenly or last for days. Older adults, particularly those with dementia, may not always be able to articulate their symptoms clearly, but persistent weakness or lethargy should be a red flag.
Nausea or Vomiting
It’s not uncommon for people to feel nauseous or vomit during a heart attack, particularly women. This symptom may be confused with gastrointestinal issues or flu-like symptoms.
If someone is showing signs of a heart attack, it’s important to call 999 immediately. It is always advisable to exercise caution.
Recognizing a Stroke
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, either by a blocked artery (ischaemic stroke) or by a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Symptoms of a stroke can develop suddenly and may include:
Sudden Numbness or Weakness
One of the most common signs of a stroke is a sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially if it’s only on one side of the body. This might make it difficult to smile, raise both arms, or speak clearly.
Confusion or Trouble Speaking
Individuals who are having a stroke may suddenly have trouble understanding or forming words. This may manifest as slurred speech or the inability to repeat a simple sentence. This is especially important for carers or lone workers to note, as these signs may be subtle in those with existing cognitive decline.
Severe Headache
A sudden and severe headache, often described as the worst headache one has ever experienced, could signal a stroke, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or confusion.
Vision Problems
Blurred or double vision can occur, or the person may have difficulty seeing out of one or both eyes. This symptom can be particularly challenging to notice in someone with dementia, as they may not always be able to communicate clearly about what they are experiencing.
Dizziness, Loss of Balance, or Coordination
A sudden feeling of dizziness or loss of balance, especially in combination with weakness or numbness, can indicate a stroke. This may lead to falls, making it especially important for carers to monitor for this sign.
The acronym FAST can help people remember the key symptoms of a stroke:
Facial drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
Arm weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Speech difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are they able to speak clearly?
Time to call 999: If the answer is "yes" to any of these, call for help immediately.
When to Seek Help
Knowing when to seek help in a medical emergency is crucial, especially for those caring for the elderly, individuals with dementia, or lone workers. Heart attacks and strokes can happen suddenly, and prompt action is key to saving lives and minimising damage. In this section, we’ll cover five key situations when it’s vital to call for professional medical assistance.
Sudden Chest Pain or Discomfort:
If someone experiences persistent chest pain, tightness, or discomfort that lasts for more than a few minutes, it may indicate a heart attack. The pain can sometimes feel like pressure, heaviness, or a squeezing sensation. It’s crucial to call 999 immediately, even if the pain subsides, as early intervention is vital to prevent heart muscle damage.
Severe Headache with Other Symptoms:
A sudden, severe headache—often described as the worst headache ever experienced—can be a sign of a stroke, particularly if it's accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or visual disturbances. If someone develops these symptoms unexpectedly, it's essential to seek medical help immediately. Ignoring these signs can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.
Difficulty Speaking or Understanding:
A stroke could occur if a person suddenly experiences difficulty speaking, slurs their words, or struggles to understand simple sentences. This might also be accompanied by confusion or difficulty finding the right words. Prompt treatment is crucial to minimise the risk of lasting speech or cognitive impairment.
Numbness or Weakness in One Side of the Body:
Sudden weakness or numbness, especially if it affects only one side of the body, could be a sign of a stroke. The affected side may include the face, arm, or leg, making it difficult to move or perform basic tasks. If this happens, it’s critical to call emergency services immediately to ensure the person receives treatment in time.
Shortness of Breath or Unexplained Fatigue:
Difficulty breathing or feeling extremely fatigued without any clear reason could be symptoms of a heart attack, especially if accompanied by chest pain. The person may feel winded even after minimal activity or experience tightness in the chest that radiates to the arms or jaw. These symptoms require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
Conclusion
Recognising the signs of a heart attack or stroke and seeking immediate medical help is crucial to improving the chances of recovery. For carers, elderly individuals, and lone workers, being aware of the symptoms and understanding when to act can save lives. Whether it’s the classic chest pain of a heart attack or the sudden weakness of a stroke, don’t hesitate to call for help.
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