It’s important to know that strokes often happen without warning, and there is no reliable list of symptoms that always appears a month beforehand. However, some people experience warning signs—especially a transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a “mini-stroke.” A TIA is a medical emergency because it can be a warning that a stroke may follow.
Possible warning signs that should never be ignored
- Sudden weakness or numbness
- Especially on one side of the face, arm, or leg.
- Sudden trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Slurred speech or difficulty finding words.
- Sudden vision changes
- Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
- Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
- Difficulty walking or unexplained coordination problems.
- A severe, sudden headache
- Especially if it is unlike any previous headache.
- Sudden confusion
- Trouble understanding or responding appropriately.
- Brief episodes of numbness or weakness that resolve
- These may be TIAs and should be evaluated immediately.
- Drooping on one side of the face
- One side of the mouth may sag when smiling.
- Difficulty swallowing
- If it appears suddenly, especially with other neurological symptoms.
- Sudden clumsiness or difficulty using one hand or arm
- Such as repeatedly dropping objects or being unable to perform familiar tasks.
Remember FAST
Use the FAST acronym to recognize a possible stroke:
- Face: Does one side droop?
- Arms: Does one arm drift downward when raised?
- Speech: Is speech slurred or strange?
- Time: Call emergency services immediately if any of these occur.
Reducing stroke risk
The most effective ways to lower stroke risk include:
- Controlling high blood pressure
- Managing diabetes and high cholesterol
- Not smoking
- Staying physically active
- Eating a balanced diet
- Taking prescribed medications as directed, especially if you have conditions like atrial fibrillation
If you or someone else develops sudden stroke symptoms—even if they disappear within minutes—seek emergency medical care immediately. Prompt treatment can greatly improve the chances of recovery.
