Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/753672
Q U I C K A N D C A L M Each second a person having a stroke goes untreated, more brain tissue dies. A stroke can occur in an instant, but many patients can be spared the disabling effects of a stroke if they are treated with thrombolytics (clot-busting drugs) up to four hours of symptom onset. Stroke patients can also benefit from advanced interventional neuroradiology, an emergency treatment available at hospitals with advanced stroke programs, such as NYM. Interventional neuroradiology allows highly trained doctors equipped with specialty medical equipment to deliver thrombolytics directly to the blocked blood vessel in the brain, extending the treatment window. But these treatments rely on stroke victims and the people surrounding them to recognize that there is a problem and seek help. If you suspect someone you are with is experiencing a stroke, think F.A.S.T. to identify stroke symptoms and take action. FACE. Look at the person's face and ask him or her to smile. Does one side of the face droop? ARMS. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? SPEECH. Ask the person to repeat a phrase. Is speech slurred? TIME. If the answer to any of these questions is "yes," it is time to call 911. Tell the operator that you suspect a stroke. JUST HOW COMMON IS PTSD IN STROKE PATIENTS? HERE'S A COMPARISON OF SOME OF THE MOST COMMON C AUSES FOR PTSD: Stroke survivors: 25 percent develop PTSD within 12 months of the event Military veterans from Operation Enduring Freedom & Operation Iraqi Freedom: 11–20 percent have developed PTSD Sexual assault victims: 30 percent develop PTSD within nine months of the incident FINDING A FIX Post-stroke PTSD patients are often anxious about the recurrence of stroke. It is a legitimate concern because having a stroke increases the likelihood of experiencing a second one. "One of the best things we as doctors can do for a patient with post- stroke PTSD is to identify the cause of their stroke," Dr. Benjamin says. Understanding the cause of the initial stroke may help mitigate risks for future strokes, giving the patient a greater sense of control. For instance, a stroke in which diabetes is suspected to have played a significant role would prompt the diligent monitoring and controlling of blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and prescription medications. Other treatment recommendations for post-stroke PTSD patients include taking medications to combat depression and anxiety and participating in support groups and therapy. P H Y S I C I A N RE F E R R A L / / 718 . 49 9. C A RE 9