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CPR and Stroke: Immediate Response and Stroke Mimics

 A stroke is a medical emergency that requires rapid recognition and response. Knowing how to perform CPR and recognize stroke signs can mean the difference between life and death. This article will explore the connections between CPR and stroke, how to respond in an emergency, and conditions that can mimic a stroke.

Recognizing Stroke - Know the Signs


A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to die. Every minute counts when someone is having a stroke, so recognizing symptoms quickly is critical.


The American Stroke Association uses the acronym FAST to identify stroke signs:


F-Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?


A-Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?


S-Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?


T-Time: If you see any of these signs, call 911 immediately. Note the time symptoms started.


Acting FAST can save a life and limit disability by getting the person prompt emergency care.


Mimics That Masquerade as Stroke


Sometimes conditions like seizures, migraines, or low blood sugar can cause symptoms that mimic a stroke. Being able to tell the difference is important so proper treatment can be given. Here are some common stroke mimics:


Seizures - May cause confusion, muscle jerks, or loss of consciousness. However, seizures are temporary and don't cause one-sided paralysis.

Migraine - Can cause vision loss, tingling, weakness, and speech problems. But migraines gradually improve after 30 minutes and don't typically affect just one side.

Low blood sugar - Confusion and weakness from hypoglycemia may look like stroke symptoms. Checking blood sugar can help differentiate. Symptoms improve quickly with food or glucose.


If you aren't sure, always call 911 and let medical personnel evaluate the person. Acting FAST in all situations of suspected stroke is crucial.


Connecting CPR and Stroke

So why is knowing CPR important for someone having a stroke? There are a few key connections:


Choking risk - Muscle coordination may be impaired after a stroke, increasing choking risk. CPR skills can help clear an obstructed airway.

Heart attack - About 1 in 3 strokes also involve a heart attack. CPR may be needed if the heart stops.

Falls - Weakness and loss of balance after a stroke increases falling risk. CPR skills to help someone who is injured or unconscious.

Compressions - CPR chest compressions can help maintain blood flow to the brain when performed immediately after stroke onset.

Knowing how to perform high-quality CPR and clear an airway obstruction provides an important emergency response skill set that can help in the critical minutes after a stroke.


Call 911, Then Start CPR


If you encounter someone showing signs of stroke, follow these steps:


Call 911 - Emergency medical services should be dispatched immediately at the first sign of a stroke. Note the time symptoms started.

Check breathing - If the person is not breathing normally, begin CPR starting with chest compressions.

Airway - Open the airway using a head tilt-chin lift if needed. Be prepared to clear vomit or blockages.


Starting cycles of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths can provide vital oxygen until help arrives. Don't stop CPR except for defibrillation or switch compressors every 2 minutes. Work as a team if others are available to assist.


Be Prepared: Learn CPR in Indianapolis

As this article has shown, having CPR knowledge and skills can make a real difference for someone experiencing a stroke or other medical emergency. To be prepared to take action if someone near you needs help:


Get Trained - Take an American Heart Association CPR and First Aid course at CPR Indianapolis. Hands-on practice in our classes gives you the skills and confidence to respond.


Keep Skills Sharp - Refresh your knowledge annually since guidelines may change. We offer quick renewal courses for current certification holders.


Learn as a Team - Take a class together with your family, coworkers, or teammates. Coordinated response as a group can help save lives.


Don't delay. Sign up for CPR training in Indianapolis today at https://cprindianapolisin.com/. Our instructors make learning life-saving skills straightforward and practical. Invest a few hours now, and you could help save a life.


Be empowered to take action in an emergency. Call 317-527-1046 or visit https://cprindianapolisin.com/ to register for American Heart Association CPR, BLS, ACLS, PALS, and First Aid. CPR Indianapolis delivers the best CPR training in Indianapolis to keep our community prepared.
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