Stroke is a very dangerous health problem, with the 3rd highest ᴍᴏʀᴛᴀʟɪᴛʏ rate in the world after Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases. Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke Will Help Prevent Disease As well as Limit Severe Sequelae.
WHAT ARE THE 5 WARNING SIGNS OF A STROKE?
The five primary signs of a stroke are:
1. Numbness or weakness in one half of your body, which will also help determine which half of your brain the stroke is taking place in (one side of your brain controls the opposite side of your body, so if there’s damage on the right side of your brain, the left side of your body will show symptoms and vice versa).
2. Impaired vision in one or both eyes.
3. Difficulty speaking or understanding what’s happening around you.
4. Sudden dizziness or balance issues resulting in trouble walking.
5. Sudden and unexplained extreme headaches.
These are all extremely serious symptoms, even if you’re only experiencing one or two. If you notice that you or someone around you is exhibiting these symptoms, make note of the time the symptoms started and call 911 immediately.
The most common and easily remembered acronym to help people recognize the symptoms of a stroke and act accordingly is F.A.S.T.:
– Face drooping – Your face has started to droop or go slack on one side
– Arm weakness – This weakness actually applies to your face, your arm, or your leg on either side
– Speech difficulty – Your words are slurred or jumbled and you’re having trouble understanding others
– Time to call 911! – You should call 911 if you’re experiencing any single one of these symptoms
Though less common, other possible symptoms of a stroke may include nausea and vomiting along with vertigo. Additional symptoms stemming from the ones listed above may occur, including trouble walking (because of the loss of balance) and confusion (from difficulty understanding). It’s important to note the approximate time that any symptoms began and list all relevant symptoms noticed in the stroke victim. The emergency room physician will need to have an accurate timeline in order to quickly assess a plan of action for treatment.
