10 Early Warning Signs of a Stroke Everyone Should Know
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. Quick treatment can save brain tissue and improve recovery.
1. Sudden weakness or numbness
- Usually affects the face, arm, or leg
- Often occurs on one side of the body
2. Face drooping
One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile—if the smile is uneven, it could be a warning sign.
3. Trouble speaking
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty finding words
- Trouble understanding others
4. Sudden vision changes
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes
5. Severe dizziness or loss of balance
A person may have:
- Trouble walking
- Poor coordination
- Sudden loss of balance
6. Sudden, severe headache
A sudden, intense headache—especially if it’s the worst headache you’ve ever had—may be a sign of a stroke, particularly if it is accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
7. Confusion
Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding simple instructions can be an early warning sign.
8. Difficulty swallowing
Some strokes affect the muscles used for swallowing, increasing the risk of choking.
9. Sudden fatigue or decreased alertness
A sudden change in alertness, especially when combined with other symptoms, should not be ignored.
10. Numbness or tingling
Sudden numbness, particularly on one side of the body, may indicate a stroke.
Remember FAST
- F – Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
- A – Arms: Does one arm drift downward when both are raised?
- S – Speech: Is speech slurred or difficult?
- T – Time: Call emergency services immediately.
