10 early warning signs of a stroke
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Recognizing symptoms quickly is important because early treatment can reduce brain damage.
1. Sudden face drooping
One side of the face may feel weak or numb. A person’s smile may look uneven.
2. Sudden weakness or numbness
Especially in the face, arm, or leg, often on one side of the body.
3. Trouble speaking or understanding speech
Speech may become slurred, confused, or difficult to understand.
4. Sudden vision problems
Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes can occur.
5. Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
A person may feel unsteady, have trouble walking, or experience coordination problems.
6. Severe sudden headache
A very intense headache that appears suddenly—especially with other symptoms—can be a warning sign.
7. Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
Sudden changes in awareness, memory, or understanding can occur.
8. Difficulty swallowing
Some people experience problems controlling the muscles involved in swallowing.
9. Nausea or vomiting with other symptoms
These may occur, especially with certain types of stroke.
10. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) warning
Symptoms that disappear after a few minutes can still be serious. A TIA (“mini-stroke”) may be a warning that a larger stroke could follow.
Remember FAST:
- F — Face: Is one side drooping?
- A — Arm: Is one arm weak or numb?
- S — Speech: Is speech strange or unclear?
- T — Time: Call emergency services immediately if these signs appear.
A stroke is a medical emergency. If someone suddenly develops these symptoms, seek urgent medical help rather than waiting to see if they improve.
