STROKE OR HEART ATTACK

Stroke symptoms. There may be headache, paralysis down one side of the body, or difficulty swallowing and speaking.  Possibly confusion and loss of consciousness

Heart attack symptoms. 

  • Sudden crushing pain in the chest often spreading to arms, neck and jaw.
  • Possibly breathlessness.

Dealing with a possible stroke or heart attack

1.  a)  Suspected stroke

If the patient is conscious, lay him down with the head and shoulders slightly raised and supported with a pillow.  Place the head on one side to allow saliva to drain from the mouth.

      b)   Suspected heart attack

If the patient is conscious, place him in a half-sitting position with head and shoulders supported with pillows or cushions, and another cushion under the knees.

2.  Call the patient’s doctor, or call Emergency number and ask for an ambulance

3.  Loosen clothing around neck, chest and waist to help circulation and breathing.

*Do not give the patient anything to eat or drink

*Do not allow a heart-attack patient to move unnecessarily; it will put extra strain on the heart.

4.  If the patient becomes unconscious, place him/her in the recovery position


       Recovery Position



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