1. Sudden Numbness or Weakness
A sudden loss of strength or numbness in the:
- Face
- Arm
- Leg
especially on one side of the body, is one of the most common stroke symptoms.
2. Face Drooping
Ask the person to smile.
If one side of the face droops or appears uneven, seek emergency medical help immediately.
3. Difficulty Speaking
A person having a stroke may:
- Slur their words
- Speak strangely
- Be unable to speak
- Have trouble understanding others
4. Sudden Vision Changes
A stroke can cause:
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes
These changes often occur suddenly.
5. Severe Headache
A sudden, severe headache—especially if it’s unlike any headache you’ve had before—may indicate a hemorrhagic stroke.
If it’s accompanied by vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness, call emergency services immediately.
6. Difficulty Walking
Sudden problems with:
- Balance
- Coordination
- Walking
- Dizziness
can be signs of a stroke.
7. Confusion
A person may suddenly become:
- Confused
- Disoriented
- Unable to follow simple instructions
8. Trouble Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing can occur during a stroke and increases the risk of choking.
9. Sudden Weakness or Fatigue
An unexplained feeling of extreme weakness, especially on one side of the body, may occur before or during a stroke.
10. Sudden Loss of Balance
If someone suddenly cannot stand, feels dizzy, or loses coordination without an obvious reason, treat it as a medical emergency.