Is Your Loved One Experiencing Stroke Symptoms? Key Signs to Watch For

Stroke?

Dear Dr.
Jiang,
Hello! My mother is 68 years old and has a history of high cholesterol and hypertension.
Recently, she has been experiencing dizziness and headaches every morning upon waking up.
She visited a nearby clinic where her systolic blood pressure was measured at 130 mmHg.
Her speech and behavior were normal, so the clinic prescribed medication for dizziness and pain relief.
After taking the medication, her dizziness and headaches subside, but they return every morning.
My mother also mentioned that she recently had two teeth extracted, and she is concerned that the pain from her teeth might be contributing to her headaches (as she has been experiencing dental pain prior to the extractions, and the extraction sites are now more painful).
We are worried that her symptoms could indicate a stroke or another condition.
Could you please help clarify her situation? Thank you!

Zhuang Xiaojie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/03

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Based on your description, your mother has a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, which places her in a high-risk group for stroke.
If she experiences sudden neurological deficits such as weakness in the limbs or slurred speech, cerebrovascular disease should be the primary consideration.
Typically, a carotid ultrasound will be arranged in a neurology outpatient clinic to check for atherosclerosis.
If she only experiences simple headaches, other primary headache disorders, such as migraines or tension-type headaches, may need to be considered.
It is recommended that you take your mother to a neurology outpatient clinic for evaluation and follow-up.
Wishing you both good health and peace.

Reply Date: 2017/03/03

More Info

When considering the symptoms your mother is experiencing, it's essential to approach the situation with a comprehensive understanding of potential health issues, particularly given her age and existing medical conditions such as high cholesterol and hypertension. The symptoms of dizziness and headaches, especially when they occur consistently in the morning, can be concerning and warrant further investigation.

Key Signs of Stroke
Firstly, it’s crucial to be aware of the classic signs of a stroke, which can be remembered using the acronym FAST:
- Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask her to smile; does it appear uneven?
- Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask her to raise both arms; does one arm drift downward?
- Speech difficulty: Is her speech slurred or hard to understand? Ask her to repeat a simple sentence.

- Time to call emergency services: If any of these signs are present, it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention.

Other Considerations
Given your mother’s history of high blood pressure and cholesterol, she is at an increased risk for cardiovascular events, including strokes. The fact that she experiences headaches and dizziness regularly, particularly upon waking, could indicate several issues:
1. Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure can lead to headaches and dizziness. While her reading of 130 mmHg is not excessively high, it’s important to monitor her blood pressure regularly, especially in the context of her overall health.

2. Medication Side Effects: If she has recently started any new medications for her blood pressure or cholesterol, these could potentially cause side effects such as dizziness or headaches.

3. Dental Issues: The recent extraction of teeth could also contribute to her symptoms. Dental pain can radiate and cause headaches, and if there is an infection or complications from the extractions, this could lead to systemic symptoms like dizziness.

4. Dehydration or Nutritional Deficiencies: Sometimes, dizziness can be linked to dehydration or lack of essential nutrients, particularly if her diet has changed recently due to her dental issues.

5. Cervical Spine Issues: Problems in the neck, such as cervical spondylosis or muscle tension, can also lead to headaches and dizziness, particularly if she has been holding her head in an unusual position or has had limited mobility.

Recommendations
1. Medical Evaluation: It’s advisable to have her evaluated by a healthcare professional. A thorough examination, including blood tests and possibly imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI, may be warranted to rule out any serious conditions, including a stroke.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of her symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any associated factors (like changes in medication, diet, or activity levels). This information can be invaluable for her healthcare provider.

3. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure she is well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet to support her overall health.

4. Follow-Up on Dental Health: If her dental issues are contributing to her symptoms, a follow-up with her dentist may be necessary to ensure proper healing and address any complications.

5. Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regularly check her blood pressure at different times of the day to identify any patterns or significant fluctuations.

In conclusion, while your mother’s symptoms could be related to her dental issues or other benign causes, they could also indicate a more serious condition, including the risk of stroke. It is essential to consult with her healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes in cases of stroke or other serious health issues.

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