5 Common Symptoms of a Stroke and How to Spot Them
A stroke is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, usually due to a blood clot or a ruptured blood vessel. Every minute counts in a stroke, and early treatment is crucial for saving a person’s life and preventing long-term disabilities. In this article, we will discuss the five common symptoms of a stroke and how to spot them.
1. Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg
One of the most common symptoms of a stroke is sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, typically the face, arm, or leg. The feeling may be accompanied by drooping or sagging of the affected limb. If you suspect someone might have had a stroke, ask them to raise both arms. If one arm drifts down, it could be a sign they’ve had a stroke.
2. Trouble speaking or understanding speech
Another common symptom of a stroke is difficulty speaking or understanding speech. The person may slur their words, have trouble finding the right words, or talk in a nonsensical way. They may also have trouble understanding what others are saying to them. If you suspect that someone might have had a stroke, ask them to repeat a simple sentence, such as “The sky is blue.” If they have trouble, call emergency services immediately.
3. Sudden vision problems
Sudden vision problems that affect one or both eyes can be a sign of a stroke. The person may have blurred or blackened vision or may see double. They may also experience a sudden loss of vision in one eye. If you notice someone with this symptom, call emergency services right away.
4. Sudden severe headache
A sudden and severe headache, often described as the worst headache of one’s life, can be a sign of a stroke. The headache may come on suddenly and without warning and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or even loss of consciousness.
5. Loss of balance or coordination
A sudden loss of balance or coordination is a sign of a stroke. The person may have trouble walking, standing, or performing other basic movements. They may also experience dizziness or a spinning sensation. If you suspect someone may be having a stroke, ask them to walk in a straight line. If they stumble or fall, call emergency services immediately.
If you think someone might be experiencing a stroke, act quickly. Call emergency services right away and describe the person’s symptoms. Every minute counts. The sooner the person receives medical attention, the better their chances of surviving and minimizing long-term disabilities. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
