Subcortical ischemic vascular disease: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help for any sudden sign of stroke, even if it improves within minutes.
Symptoms can include:
Weakness or numbness on one side of the face or body
A drooping face
New trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden vision loss or double vision
Sudden severe unsteadiness or loss of coordination
A sudden, unusually severe headache
New confusion or loss of consciousness
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Brief symptoms may be a transient ischemic attack, sometimes called a TIA or “mini-stroke.” A TIA requires urgent assessment because the risk of a full stroke may be higher soon afterward.
More prompt assessment is appropriate after an unexplained fall with injury, rapidly worsening confusion, repeated choking, or a sudden decline that develops over hours or days.
These changes may have causes other than small-vessel damage, including infection or medication effects.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine medical follow-up for gradual changes such as slower walking, repeated minor falls, worsening concentration, low mood, or increasing urinary urgency.
Earlier assessment can identify treatable contributors and help with safety.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Subcortical ischemic vascular disease. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.