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INTRODUCTION
Stroke patients are parents, grandparents,
spouses, teachers, caregivers, and much, much more than just
patients to those who love and care for them. As pharmacists,
we have the greatest of privileges and responsibilities. It
is our privilege to assist in the prevention of a transient
ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.
We can inform those we interact with about
the severity of a stroke, how to recognize the symptoms of
a stroke, how to reduce the risk of stroke (through education
of disease modifying lifestyles and the proper use of medications
for those at risk and those who have unfortunately had a stroke
and want help in preventing an occurrence). We must take the
time to be involved and make a difference.
DEFINITIONS
Stroke
A stroke (Apoplexy-latin term) is the sudden
onset of weakness, numbness, paralysis, slurred speech,
aphasia, problems with vision and other manifestations of
a sudden interruption of blood flow to a particular area
of the brain. The ischemic area involved determines the
type of focal deficit that is seen in the patient.
Transient Ischemic
Attack (TIA)
A TIA is similar to a stroke, but the interruption
of blood flow is temporary. The clot resolves sporadically.
The symptoms are relatively the same as a stroke but last
less than 24 hours. Where as stroke symptoms persist for
greater than 24 hours.
The Problem
The problem is many people may not know what
the signs and symptoms of a stroke. This may cause the patient
to ignore these critical warning signs and delay seeking
medical attention. Recognizing and responding to these warning
signs early, by seeking immediate medical attention, can
be the determining factor in the patient’s recovery and
prevention of a future stroke.
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Stroke Education
