Recognizing the symptoms that may signal an impending stroke can be life-saving. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to potential brain cell damage. Often, the body can send warning signs before a major stroke happens. Here’s what to look for:
1. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or "Mini-Stroke"
- TIAs are sometimes called “mini-strokes” and can be a critical warning sign. They involve a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, causing symptoms similar to a stroke but lasting only a few minutes to an hour. Even if symptoms resolve, a TIA indicates a higher risk of a full stroke, often within days or weeks.
Severe Weakness or Numbness
- Weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body, is a common early sign. This might affect the face, arm, or leg. Sometimes, the person feels a “heaviness” in one side of the body, particularly in the limbs.
3. Difficulty Speaking or Understanding Speech
- Experiencing slurred speech, trouble finding words, or difficulty understanding others can be a sign. This can happen suddenly and may feel confusing or frustrating.
4. Vision Problems
- Blurred or double vision or sudden blindness in one or both eyes can occur. Some people describe a "curtain" falling over their vision or seeing sudden flashes of light.
5. Dizziness or Loss of Balance
- Feeling unsteady, dizzy, or having trouble walking could indicate an upcoming stroke. Some may feel a sudden loss of coordination, causing difficulty standing or walking straight.
6. Severe, Sudden Headache
- A sudden, intense headache with no known cause can be a sign of a hemorrhagic stroke, caused by bleeding in or around the brain. The pain is often described as “the worst headache” ever experienced.
7. Confusion or Memory Issues
- Changes in cognitive functions, like difficulty thinking, processing information, or making decisions, can also occur before a stroke.
When to Act: The F.A.S.T. Method
Use this acronym to recognize and act quickly on stroke symptoms:
- Face drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- Arm weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred?
- Time to call 911: If any of these signs are present, seek immediate medical help.
Additional Risk Factors to Be Aware Of
- High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, and heart disease all increase the risk of stroke. Monitoring these conditions and making healthy lifestyle choices can help lower stroke risk.
Strokes are medical emergencies, and time is critical. Getting help within the first few hours can make a big difference in outcomes, so it’s essential to act quickly if you or someone else experiences any of these symptoms.
