Recognizing a Stroke

(Just a forwarded message. This needs verification.)

----- A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3

hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He said the

trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed and getting to the patient

within 3 hours which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

1. *Ask the individual to SMILE.

2. *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

3. *Ask the person to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. . . It is sunny out today) If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, call 9-1-1 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

After discovering that a group of non-medical volunteers could identify facial weakness, arm weakness and speech problems, researchers urged the general public to learn the three questions. They presented their conclusions at the American Stroke Association's annual meeting last February. Widespread use of this test could result in prompt diagnosis and treatment of the stroke and prevent brain damage.

Personal Safety in a Car

• LOCK THE CAR. No matter if you're in it or not, driving or not, always lock the car, all doors.
• When you approach your parked vehicle, visually check the area around the vehicle for any suspicious persons or activity. If you observe anything suspicious walk to where there are other people and call the police.
• Always park in visible, well-lighted areas.
• When driving a car, attempt to avoid parking next to a larger pickup truck or van. The truck can be easy for any suspect to hide behind or in.
• Have your keys ready when approaching your vehicle to reduce the time needed to enter.
• When operating your vehicle, keep the doors locked and windows rolled up.
• Any valuables in your car should be placed in the trunk or otherwise kept out of sight.
• When stopped at traffic lights or in traffic, allow space between you and the vehicle in front of you so you can drive away if necessary.
• If someone approaches your vehicle and attempts to enter, blow your horn to attract attention and drive away.
• Consider a cellular phone, it is a good investment for safety.
• Do not pick up hitchhikers.
• Do not open your window if someone approaches your vehicle to ask for directions, the time , etc, Keep the doors locked.
• Never leave house keys attached to car keys at service stations or parking facilities.
• Do not stop for stranded motorist. Instead, go to the nearest telephone booth and call the police for assistance.
• Never let your gas indicator fall below 1/4 full.
• Criminals sometimes stage a motor vehicle accident known as a " bump and Rob" The motorist is robbed when they exit their vehicle. If you are involved in a minor accident under suspicious circumstances, stay in your vehicle with the doors locked and the windows up and await the police. If you believe you are in possible danger, write down the license plate of the other vehicle involved in the accident and drive to a safe location to report the accident to the police.
• Carry in you car: a flashlight, fix-a-flat, maps, comfortable warm clothing, a portable fire extinguisher, first aid kit, empty gas can, white cloth to tie to door handle or antenna to signal distress and a cellular phone.
• If you are driving somewhere you are not familiar with, plan your route and check a map before you start out.