Understanding health emergencies can be difficult. Especially because of the coronavirus, you may not know whether or not to go right to the emergency room or call your physician when health problems occur. However, those experiencing health emergencies must go to the ER immediately. Here are some signs and symptoms of a vascular emergency.
Signs of stroke
There are telltale signs of a stroke. You can use the acronym F.A.S.T. to identify early signs of a stroke.
Face drooping. If you ask the person to smile and it looks uneven, this is a sign.
Arm weakness. One side feels weak or numb. If you ask the person to lift both arms, one will be lower than the other.
Speech difficulty. The person will have trouble speaking or sound slurred.
Time to call 911. Call 911 immediately if someone has any of these symptoms, as time is of the essence with a stroke.
Read about more signs of stroke here.
Signs of vascular distress
Additional symptoms to look out for include pains in the chest, shoulder, jaw, or back. If your appearance changes suddenly, such as becoming pale or sweaty or having difficulty breathing, it is usually a sign that something is wrong.
If you experience shortness of breath, sudden fatigue, severe leg swelling or pain, heart palpitations, vomiting, or dizziness or fainting, then it’s probably time to go to the emergency room. This could be signs of a vascular emergency.
If you have a sudden symptom that is not severe, be sure to call your physician. Your doctor’s group will route you to the physician on call who can let you know whether or not to seek immediate treatment.
How to keep your vascular system healthy
It’s essential to care for your vascular system continually. Read our tips on how to stay healthy.
1. Don’t forget checkups
Even in the time of COVID-19, it’s important to have regular checkups. Many doctors are offering telehealth visits to maintain social distancing guidelines. If you have any new symptoms or signals of health distress, be sure to speak with your doctor.
2. Exercise regularly
Getting moving is terrific for your vascular health. Aim for at least thirty minutes of physical activity per day, which can be walking, running, weights, yoga, and more.
3. Eat a balanced diet
Eating a healthy diet can be a challenge for many, but it’s crucial for maintaining good health. Make sure to read nutritional labels, avoid overly processed foods, and fill your plate with vegetables.
4. Get enough sleep
Getting enough rest can be difficult for many, especially with hectic jobs and kids’ schedules. However, poor sleep and wreak havoc on your health, so aim for eight hours per night.
5. Pay attention to any changes
If you notice any changes in your body, be sure to tell your doctor. You know yourself the most, so if you think something is off, speak with your physician.
