Overlooked stroke signs, following Brian May’s ‘scary’ ordeal | UK | News | EUROtoday

Two months in the past, Queen guitarist Brian May was taken to hospital following a ‘well being hiccup’ that turned out to be a ‘minor stroke’. The 77-year-old rock legend quickly misplaced using his left arm, an ordeal he shared together with his followers, confessing he discovered it fairly scary.

Now in restoration and raving in regards to the ‘incredible care’ Frimley Park Hospital offered, May’s state of affairs has introduced consideration to the myriad of refined stroke signs which can be very important to look at for. Notably, ‘minor strokes’ like May’s and ‘common strokes’ can current in another way.

Dr Lawrence Cunningham, a retired GP on the Help and Advice, informed the Express: “In my experience, the most recognisable symptoms of a stroke can be remembered with the acronym F.A.S.T – Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services.

“However, there are much less typical signs that folks usually miss. I’ve encountered circumstances the place people skilled sudden confusion, problem understanding speech, or perhaps a extreme headache with no identified trigger. Some additionally report imaginative and prescient issues or dizziness. I at all times advocate being vigilant about any sudden and unexplained adjustments in neurological operate.”

A minor stroke, also known as a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA), typically occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain, back of the eye or spinal cord is temporarily blocked. This can cause symptoms similar to a full-blown stroke, such as numbness, difficulty speaking, dizziness or double vision, but it doesn’t usually result in permanent damage or disability, according to Mayo Clinic.

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In contrast, a regular stroke happens when the blood supply to a part of the brain is completely cut off, killing brain cells and potentially affecting bodily functions from that point forward. Those who have experienced a minor stroke are particularly at risk of having a regular stroke within the next 48 hours, which could be life-threatening.

“In some situations, signs might final only some minutes, a situation referred to as a transient ischemic assault (TIA) or ‘mini-stroke’, which serves as a warning signal for potential future strokes,” Dr Cunningham summarised. “However, full-blown strokes may cause lasting harm.

“Silent strokes are indeed a reality [too]. Unlike typical strokes, these don’t present noticeable symptoms and can go unnoticed. However, they still cause damage to the brain and can be identified through brain imaging.

“I’ve seen sufferers who solely found that they had a silent stroke throughout scans for different points. These strokes can accumulate over time, resulting in extra important well being issues.”

If you suspect you’ve had a stroke, it’s vital to seek medical attention even if the symptoms have subsided. Dr Cunningham explained that hospitals may then conduct assessments and initiate preventative measures to reduce the risk of another medical emergency.

“Early intervention may be life-saving and vastly enhance outcomes,” he went on. “I’ve realized that point is of the essence when coping with strokes.

“Public awareness of the symptoms and risk factors can significantly impact outcomes. I always advocate for regular health check-ups, especially for those with risk factors. And remember, never hesitate to seek medical help if you suspect a stroke -better safe than sorry.”