Warning Signs of Stroke
Signs of stroke are extremely vital to recognize in order to have the maximum chance of survival and recovery. If treated within three hours, damage caused by a stroke can be mitigated using anti-clot drugs, but unfortunately, less than 25% make it in time. It’s time to improve the odds with awareness and education. Since stroke affects and damages the brain, you may not realize that you are having a stroke until it’s too late. On the reverse side, a bystander may misdiagnose stroke symptoms mistaking someone having a stroke for someone who just looks unaware or confused.
Stroke victims have the best chance if someone near them recognizes the signs of stroke and acts fast. If you notice any of the following signs of stroke, don't hesitate. Stroke is a serious medical emergency. Call 911 and get to a hospital right away!
Signs of Stroke
Signs of stroke:
- Unexpected and abrupt numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, specifically on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, difficulty talking or understanding
- Trouble seeing – in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, balance or coordination problems
- Abrupt, massive and painful headache with unknown cause
Always be prepared for an emergency, keeping emergency service numbers next to your phone, which hospitals specialize in stroke, and know which one is closest to your home or work.
Also, be aware that not all the signs of stroke occur in every case. Don’t ignore even one, and even if it goes away (it could be TIA or mini-stroke). Check the time of the first symptom, and again, call 911 immediately if you see or experience any one of these signs of stroke. Expect protest, which is common, but do not take “no” for an answer. Insist on taking fast and decisive action, because recognizing the signs of stroke can save the life of you or someone you care about.
