In emergency situations, there is no concept of "wait and see," because even a few minutes of delay or improper handling can lead to very serious consequences. In fact, many people still confuse stroke with sudden cardiac death - two completely different conditions in terms of recognizable signs and initial intervention.
1. How Are Stroke and Sudden Cardiac Death Different?
Stroke and sudden cardiac death are two conditions that require different "responses." Correct identification from the outset will help increase the chance of saving the patient's life and minimize aftereffects.
1.1 Stroke
Stroke is a condition in which blood flow to the brain is interrupted due to a blockage or rupture of a blood vessel. When this happens, the brain does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to begin dying within just a few minutes, resulting in symptoms such as partial paralysis of the body, loss of consciousness, etc.
However, the patient's heart may continue to function, and not all cases result in immediate death. Nevertheless, if not detected and treated promptly, stroke patients face a high risk of death.
1.2. Sudden Cardiac Death
Sudden cardiac death is a condition in which death occurs unexpectedly within a very short time after acute symptoms appear, or in some cases, the patient is found dead without any previously recorded clear warning signs.
The common cause is usually related to the cardiovascular system, when heart function is severely disrupted or suddenly stops, interrupting blood circulation. Sudden cardiac death is common in people with underlying heart conditions or cardiovascular health issues.
2. Distinguishing the Signs of Stroke and Sudden Cardiac Death
2.1. Signs of Stroke via the "BE FAST" Rule
B (Balance) - Loss of balance, headache, dizziness.
E (Eyesight) - Sudden partial or complete loss of vision.
F (Face) - Facial drooping, an uneven smile on one side, a deviated philtrum.
A (Arm) - Weakness on one side of the body, difficulty holding objects firmly.
S (Speech) - Sudden difficulty speaking or slurred speech.
T (Time) - Quickly take the patient to the nearest medical facility for emergency care.
2.2. Common Signs of Sudden Cardiac Death
Sudden fainting or collapse: feeling everything around spinning, dizziness, difficulty standing or moving.
Cessation of breathing and heartbeat.
Sudden, temporary loss of consciousness with no response.
Possible brief seizures.
3. On-the-Spot Response for Stroke and Sudden Cardiac Death
The common feature of both conditions is that they progress rapidly, are dangerous, and require immediate emergency care. Don't let confusion cost you the "golden time":
3.1. Stroke
On-the-spot response when stroke is recognized:
Call emergency services (115) immediately.
Lay the patient on their side, with the head slightly elevated.
Cover with a blanket to keep warm.
Talk to and reassure the patient while monitoring their breathing.
If breathing is difficult, loosen their clothing.
If the patient stops breathing, perform CPR.
Note: do not give the patient anything to eat or drink. If the patient shows signs of limb weakness, do not move them.
3.2. Sudden Cardiac Death
Call emergency services (115) immediately.
If the patient has no heartbeat, perform CPR immediately with chest compressions, applying strong and fast pressure at about 100 compressions per minute.
If the patient has no breathing, perform rescue breathing by opening the victim's mouth, lifting the chin, pinching the nose, and blowing air into the victim's mouth twice (a bag mask device may be used to deliver breaths if available).
Continue repeating these two actions until emergency services arrive.
4. How to Prevent the Risk of Stroke and Sudden Cardiac Death
According to Dr. Ha Thanh Ha, Head of the Emergency - Intensive Care - Toxicology Department at HIU Hospital:
"Both stroke and sudden cardiac death can occur unexpectedly, but they are not without ways to prevent them. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, getting enough sleep, and limiting late-night bathing. Properly control underlying conditions in people with a history of hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. In particular, regular check-ups every six months to a year are also an important step in protecting long-term health. Everyone should proactively undergo early screening for stroke risk and cardiovascular disease to receive advice on appropriate monitoring and treatment."