Every 40 seconds, someone in the US has a stroke.1 Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability, but recognizing the signs and getting immediate treatment can dramatically improve outcomes.
Knowing the warning signs could save your life or the life of a loved one. Here are the nine signs you need to watch out for. Remember, if you suspect a stroke, call 911 right away – every minute counts.
1. Sudden Numbness or Weakness
One of the most common signs of stroke is sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body (ref). This may affect the face, arm, or leg.
You might experience a drooping sensation or have difficulty moving the affected limb. If you notice this symptom, don’t brush it off – seek emergency medical attention immediately.
2. Confusion or Trouble Speaking
During a stroke, you may suddenly have difficulty speaking or understanding others. Your speech might be slurred, garbled, or nonsensical.
You may struggle to find the right words or be unable to form coherent sentences. This symptom can be alarming for both you and those around you. If you or someone else experiences sudden speech problems, it’s crucial to call 911 right away.
3. Vision Problems
A stroke can cause sudden vision problems, such as dimness, blurriness, or loss of vision in one or both eyes. You may have double vision or see dark or blind spots.
These vision changes can come on rapidly and may be accompanied by other stroke symptoms. Don’t wait for your vision to return to normal – get emergency help immediately if you experience sudden vision problems.
4. Dizziness & Balance Issues
Another warning sign of stroke is sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination problems. You may feel like the room is spinning or have trouble walking straight.
You might stumble, sway, or be unable to stand without support. These balance issues can be dangerous and lead to falls. If you experience sudden dizziness or balance problems, sit or lie down and call 911 right away.
5. Severe Headache
A sudden, severe headache with no known cause can be a sign of stroke, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms. This headache may come on rapidly and feel unlike any headache you’ve had before.
You may describe it as the “worst headache of your life.” Don’t try to tough it out – if you have a sudden, severe headache, seek emergency medical care immediately.
6. Facial Drooping
During a stroke, one side of the face may droop or feel numb. This can cause an uneven smile or make it difficult to move one side of the face.
To check for this symptom, try smiling in a mirror. If one side of your face doesn’t move normally or feels numb, it could be a sign of a stroke.
7. Arm Weakness
Sudden arm weakness, especially on one side of the body, is another common stroke symptom. You may have difficulty raising your arm or find that it drifts downward when you try to hold it up.
This weakness can make everyday tasks like lifting objects or getting dressed challenging. If you experience sudden arm weakness, don’t wait – get emergency medical help right away.
8. Trouble Walking
Stroke can cause sudden trouble walking, loss of balance, or lack of coordination. You may stumble, sway, or be unable to walk in a straight line.
This symptom can come on quickly and make it difficult to move around safely. If you have sudden trouble walking or feel unsteady on your feet, sit down and call 911 immediately.
9. Nausea & Vomiting
While less common than other symptoms, sudden nausea and vomiting can sometimes be a sign of stroke, especially in women (ref). This may be accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or headache.
If you experience sudden, unexplained nausea or vomiting, don’t assume it’s just a stomach bug. Seek emergency medical attention to rule out the possibility of stroke.
Recognizing the warning signs of stroke is crucial for getting prompt treatment and improving outcomes. If you suspect a stroke, don’t hesitate – call 911 immediately.
Every minute counts when it comes to stroke treatment, so knowing these warning signs could save your life or the life of a loved one. Share this information with others and help spread awareness about the signs of stroke.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
