When to Contact a Doctor
The guidance here is simple and absolute. There is no room for hesitation.
If you or someone you are with experiences any of the symptoms of a stroke—be it face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, a sudden severe headache, or sudden confusion—call 911 immediately.
Do not wait to see if the symptoms improve or go away. Do not attempt to drive yourself or the person to the hospital. Paramedics can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the emergency room and are trained to transport you to the most appropriate medical center for stroke care. Every second counts.
For non-emergency situations, schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your personal stroke risk and create a prevention plan. This is a crucial part of proactive senior health management.
