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R.I.C.E those Sprains and Strains
Move RIGHT for Siren and Lights- Column by San Juan Island EMS Chief Jim Cole
Baby, it's cold inside
Care in the Air
Hands-only CPR saving lives
Falls in the Spring
Strokes
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STROKES
posted 03/21/2008
A "Stroke" or Brain Attack is when the brain's blood supply is interrupted and begins to be injured.
Some signs of a stroke are:
- Sudden feeling of weakness in an arm, hand or leg
- Weakness or numbness on one side of your face or body
- Sudden loss of vision or blurriness in one eye
- Sudden difficulty in walking
- Inability to understand what someone is saying
- Sudden onset of slurred speech or "droopy" smile
- Feeling dizzy or losing your balance
- Having the worst headache you have ever had
Most strokes are very treatable if diagnosed EARLY. At the first sign or concern, call 9-1-1. Our paramedics and EMTs will assess and begin treatment right at your home that will greatly improve your chance of a full recovery. For more information click onto www.strokeassociation.org.
Each Friday, Chief Jim Cole from San Juan Island EMS will be writing an article on an important health and safety topic affecting our community. Jim has been a Nationally Registered Paramedic for over 20 years and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Community Health and a Masters Degree in Higher Education. Prior to coming to San Juan, he was the Director of the School of EMS for the Cleveland Clinic Health System. Suggestions for future topics can be sent to jimcole@sanjuanislander.com.
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