10 Early Warning Signs of a Stroke Everyone Should Know
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. Recognizing the signs quickly and getting emergency care can greatly improve the chances of recovery.
1. Sudden face drooping
- One side of the face may droop or feel numb.
- Ask the person to smile—an uneven smile can be a warning sign.
2. Sudden arm or leg weakness
- Weakness or numbness, usually on one side of the body.
- The person may have difficulty raising one arm.
3. Sudden speech problems
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty speaking
- Trouble understanding what others are saying
4. Sudden vision changes
- Blurred or double vision
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes
5. Sudden trouble walking
- Loss of balance
- Dizziness
- Poor coordination
6. Sudden severe headache
- A very intense headache with no obvious cause, especially if it begins abruptly.
7. Sudden confusion
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Disorientation
- Trouble following simple instructions
8. Sudden numbness
- Numbness affecting the face, arm, or leg, particularly on one side.
9. Difficulty swallowing
- New trouble swallowing or choking without another clear explanation.
10. Loss of consciousness or fainting
- Although less common, a stroke can sometimes cause sudden collapse or reduced alertness
