University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics is hosting a free Health for Your Lifetime seminar on recognizing and treatment of stroke, called “Code Stroke: Emergency Treatment of Stroke.”  Azeem Ahmed, MD, medical director of Air and Mobile Critical Care Service in the Department of Emergency Medicine at UI Hospitals and Clinics, talks about stroke and the seminar:

What are the symptoms of a stroke?

Some symptoms of stroke include weakness of the arm, the leg, or both, especially if it is on one side of the body; weakness or drooping of the face, especially on one side of the body; slurred speech or speech that is clear but doesn’t make any sense; difficulty walking or handling objects; dizziness or numbness; vision problems; sudden headache; and it can even be a loss of consciousness.

Do symptoms vary from men to women?

In general, the symptoms tend to be similar. However, women may have more non-specific symptoms, such as face or limb pain, nausea, general weakness, shortness of breath, or palpitation. Statistically, women have fewer strokes than men, but more women will die as a result of their stroke as compared to men.

How early in a person’s life can we experience a stroke?

Stroke tends to be a disease of older people, but it is important to know that 25 percent of all strokes occur in people less than 65 years old. I’ve seen strokes in people as young as 30-35 years old. The bottom line is that stroke can affect people of all ages.

What should someone do if they recognize the symptoms of a stroke in themselves or a friend?

They should immediately call 911 and be taken to the nearest emergency department, they should not drive themselves or wait for a ride, they should not take any home medications, and they should not eat or drink anything.

Why should a stroke be treated like an emergency event?

By definition, stroke is a medical emergency like a heart attack or a car accident. It is a time-sensitive condition because brain cells start dying within minutes of the onset of stroke. It is a treatable condition and appropriate stabilization and medical treatment could save the patient’s life, as well as maximize the quality of their life.  

When is the free seminar – Health for Your Lifetime – event being held?

The seminar will be held Wednesday, May 30, at the Holiday Inn Conference Center in Coralville from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The event is free to the public. Call 319-384-8442 or 800-777-8442 to pre-register for the event.

Who should attend the seminar?

I would encourage men and women of all ages to attend this event. Stroke affects all people regardless of age, color, creed, or socioeconomic status.