What Journalists Need to Know Before Reporting on Strokes
A stroke, sometimes referred to as a brain attack, occurs when the flow of blood to a part of the brain is obstructed or when a blood vessel within the brain ruptures. In both scenarios, segments of the brain sustain damage or perish. The aftermath of a stroke can result in enduring brain impairment, chronic disability, or even loss of life. The brain serves as the command center for our movements, memories, thoughts, emotions, and language. Additionally, it regulates numerous bodily functions, including breathing and digestion.
For the brain to function optimally, it requires a steady supply of oxygen. Oxygen-rich blood is delivered to all regions of the brain through arteries. However, if there's an obstruction in blood flow, brain cells begin to perish within minutes due to oxygen deprivation, leading to a stroke.
Knowing the Types of Strokes
There are two types of strokes: ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes. Ischemic strokes arise from an obstruction within an artery responsible for supplying blood to the brain. Without swift restoration of circulation, the resulting brain damage can become irreparable. Also known as brain ischemia or cerebral ischemia, this type of stroke results from a blockage that diminishes blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, culminating in the demise or impairment of brain cells. Remarkably, around 87 percent of all strokes fall under the category of ischemic strokes.
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding within the cranial region. This disrupts the usual blood circulation in the brain, depriving certain areas of essential oxygen. Furthermore, the accumulation of blood exerts pressure on neighboring brain tissues, resulting in their impairment or demise. These strokes pose a grave threat due to the rapid exacerbation of severe symptoms. Without immediate medical intervention, hemorrhagic strokes frequently induce irreversible brain damage and can even be fatal.
Transient ischemic attacks, often referred to as "warning strokes," are also important to note. It is crucial to understand that a TIA serves as a forewarning of a potential future stroke and that they demand immediate medical attention, just as a major stroke would. Unfortunately, it can be challenging initially to distinguish between TIA symptoms and those of a major stroke. Without treatment, over a third of individuals experiencing a TIA may suffer a major stroke within a year, with up to 10% to 15% experiencing one within three months. So, they should be taken just as seriously as major strokes.
Acting F.A.S.T. to Identify a Stroke
Effective stroke treatments hinge on timely recognition and diagnosis, typically within a narrow window of three hours from the onset of symptoms. Unfortunately, stroke patients may miss these optimal treatments if they fail to reach the hospital promptly.
The acronym F.A.S.T. represents face, arms, speech, and time. Initially, it is crucial to assess the individual's face by asking them to smile and observing for any drooping on one side. Then, the individual should be instructed to raise both arms and ensure there is no drifting downward of one arm. Following this, they should be asked to repeat a simple phrase to evaluate if their speech is slurred or abnormal. Lastly, time signifies the urgency of calling 9-1-1 immediately upon observing any of these signs.
Reporting on Strokes
To effectively report on strokes, journalists can emphasize the critical importance of understanding this medical emergency and the potential devastating consequences it can have on individuals. Journalists can highlight the importance of a continuous oxygen supply for optimal brain function and the dire consequences when this supply is disrupted, leading to a stroke. By providing comprehensive information about strokes, their types, warning signs, and the importance of timely intervention, journalists can empower their audience to recognize and respond to this medical emergency effectively.
