Signs
and Symptoms of Stroke
The
following are the most common symptoms of stroke.
However, each individual may experience symptoms
differently. If any of these symptoms are present,
call 911 (or your local ambulance service) immediately.
Treatment is most effective when started immediately.
Symptoms
may be sudden and include:
- weakness or numbness
of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one
side of the body
- confusion or difficulty
speaking or understanding
- problems with vision
such as dimness or loss of vision in one or
both eyes
- dizziness or problems
with balance or coordination
- problems with movement
or walking
- severe headaches with
no other known cause
All
of the above warning signs may not occur with
each stroke. Do not ignore any of the warning
signs, even if they go away - take action immediately.
The symptoms of stroke may resemble other medical
conditions or problems. Always consult your physician
for a diagnosis.
Other,
less common, symptoms of stroke may include the
following:
- sudden nausea, vomiting,
or fever not caused by a viral illness
- brief loss or change
of consciousness such as fainting, confusion,
seizures, or coma
- transient ischemic
attack (TIA), or "mini-stroke"
A TIA can cause many
of the same symptoms as a stroke, but TIA
symptoms are transient and last for a few
minutes to up to 24 hours. Call for medical
help immediately if you suspect a person is
having a TIA, as it may be a warning sign
that a stroke is about to occur. Not all strokes,
however, are preceded by TIAs.
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Resources of Cardiovascular Disease
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