A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly interrupted. This can be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or by bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Without quick treatment, brain cells begin to die, which can lead to permanent disability or death.
Time is critical. The sooner medical help arrives, the better the chance of limiting damage. Many hospitals use the FAST test to help people recognise the most common warning signs:
– Face: Does one side of the face droop when the person smiles?
– Arms: Can the person raise both arms and keep them up, or does one arm drift downward?
– Speech: Is speech slurred or strange?
– Time: If any of these signs appear, call emergency services immediately and note the time symptoms started.
Do not wait to see if the symptoms improve or try to drive yourself to hospital. Emergency responders can begin assessment and treatment on the way.
Here are seven signals that may appear with a stroke or, in some cases, as a warning (such as a transient ischemic attack, or “mini-stroke”) in the days or hours before a larger event:
1. Sudden numbness or weakness
Especially on one side of the face, arm or leg.
2. Confusion
Sudden difficulty understanding what others are saying or knowing what is happening.
3. Trouble speaking
Slurred speech, difficulty finding words, or inability to speak clearly.
4. Vision problems
Blurred, double or lost vision in one or both eyes.
5. Trouble walking or loss of balance
Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or lack of coordination.
6. Dizziness
A sudden spinning sensation or feeling of imbalance.
7. Sudden severe headache
An intense headache that comes on without warning and feels different from usual headaches.
These symptoms can appear suddenly. Even if they come and go, they should never be ignored. In the United States alone, hundreds of thousands of people experience a stroke each year. Anyone can be affected, and early action can make a major difference in the outcome.
If you or someone near you shows any of these signs, treat it as an emergency and seek medical help at once.
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