A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and causing them to begin dying within minutes. While strokes are often associated with older adults, they can happen to anyone at any age. In fact, more than a third of people hospitalized for strokes are under the age of 65, according to MedicineNet. Recognizing the early warning signs of a stroke can be life-saving, as immediate treatment can help prevent long-term disability or even death.
Knowing these warning signs empowers you to take quick action and ensure that anyone experiencing a stroke receives the necessary help as soon as possible. Here are seven critical signs to watch out for.
1. Face Drooping
One of the most recognizable signs of a stroke is sudden drooping or numbness on one side of the face. You may notice that one side of the person’s face appears uneven or “lopsided.” The American Stroke Association recommends using the “smile test” to check for this sign: ask the person to smile, and see if one side of their face remains expressionless or appears noticeably lower than the other.
In many cases, face drooping is accompanied by a feeling of numbness. This symptom occurs because a stroke can affect the nerves that control facial muscles, leading to a loss of function on one side of the face. If you notice this sign, it’s critical to seek medical assistance immediately.
2. Arm Weakness
Arm weakness is another common early indicator of a stroke. People experiencing a stroke may suddenly feel weakness or numbness in one arm, often on the same side as their facial drooping. To test for arm weakness, ask the person to raise both arms above their head at the same time. If one arm drifts downward or they are unable to lift it altogether, this could indicate a stroke.
This weakness usually occurs because the brain’s ability to send signals to the muscles is disrupted, making it difficult for the person to control the affected limb. It’s essential to recognize this symptom as a serious warning sign and seek emergency care.
3. Speech Difficulty
Difficulty speaking or slurred speech is another telltale sign of a stroke. If someone is having a stroke, they may struggle to articulate words or their speech may sound garbled. The person might also have trouble understanding simple sentences. Healthline suggests asking the person to repeat a simple phrase, like “The sky is blue.” If their speech sounds unclear or they struggle to say the phrase, this could be a sign of a stroke.
This speech difficulty occurs because the stroke disrupts the areas of the brain responsible for language. In some cases, this symptom may appear subtle, so listen closely if you notice a person suddenly speaking with an unusual slur or hesitation.
4. Severe Headache
A sudden, intense headache can be an early warning sign of a stroke, especially if the person isn’t prone to migraines or other headache disorders. This type of headache often comes on very quickly and can be accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, or vision changes.
While headaches can sometimes be harmless, if you or someone else experiences an out-of-the-blue headache that feels extremely severe and different from usual, it’s best not to ignore it. In combination with other stroke symptoms, a sudden headache can be a red flag that requires immediate medical attention.
5. Changes in Vision
A stroke can impact your vision, often leading to sudden double vision, blurred vision, or even temporary blindness in one or both eyes. These changes may affect only one eye, and they can come on without warning. MedicineNet advises paying close attention to any unexpected changes in vision, especially if accompanied by any of the other signs on this list.
These vision changes occur because a stroke can affect the areas of the brain that control vision, impairing the ability to see clearly. If you or someone else experiences sudden changes in vision, it’s important to take them seriously and seek help.
6. Confusion or Trouble Understanding
Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding others can also indicate a stroke. This can manifest as a person having trouble following a conversation, understanding simple questions, or expressing themselves clearly. They may seem disoriented or even agitated as they struggle to process information.
The American Stroke Association lists confusion as a key sign of stroke because the condition disrupts the brain’s cognitive functions. If you notice someone suddenly seeming confused or unable to comprehend things they’d typically understand, get them to medical assistance without delay.
7. Loss of Balance or Coordination
A stroke can disrupt the brain’s ability to control balance and coordination, causing a person to become suddenly unsteady on their feet. If someone appears to be struggling to walk, swaying, or unable to stand up straight, this may indicate a stroke. You can ask them to perform simple balance tests, such as walking in a straight line or touching their nose with their index finger. If they’re unable to perform these tasks or seem very unsteady, it’s important to take action.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke stresses that time is of the essence when someone is having a stroke. Loss of coordination can result in falls and additional injuries, making it critical to recognize this symptom early and seek help.
Why Immediate Action is Crucial
When it comes to stroke, every second counts. The faster a stroke is recognized and treated, the better the chance of minimizing damage to the brain and reducing the risk of permanent disability. The acronym FAST is a helpful way to remember the key signs:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call emergency services
If you recognize any of these signs, don’t hesitate—call emergency services right away. Early treatment can restore blood flow to the brain and reduce the impact of the stroke.
Conclusion: Know the Signs, Save a Life
A stroke is a serious medical emergency, but with knowledge of the early warning signs, you can take quick action that could save a life. Remember, face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, sudden headaches, vision changes, confusion, and loss of balance are all potential indicators of a stroke. By learning to recognize these symptoms and acting FAST, you can make a real difference in ensuring that anyone experiencing a stroke gets the help they need.
If you or a loved one is at risk, don’t wait for symptoms to appear—consider talking to your doctor about preventative steps you can take to reduce the risk of stroke. Taking a proactive approach to your health today could protect you tomorrow. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and don’t underestimate the power of knowing the signs.
