The American Stroke Association reports that stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States. Approximately 87 percent of those strokes are related to a blood clot passing through the brain. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms associated with an event, as every second counts toward preventing permanent brain damage, paralysis and death.
Neurological Problems
According to the Washington Hospital Center, sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, understanding or comprehending others is another acute warning signal that something is terribly awry. Severe headache is another early symptom, and if it accompanies any of the previous symptoms without another a discernible cause, it could indicate a stroke.
Biological Symptoms
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke posit that the onset of sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arms or legs on one side or both can be a strong indication of stroke. Many individuals also report blurred vision or seeing double in one or both eyes, exhibit difficulty walking, extreme dizziness, poor balance and coordination of movements.
Symptoms Particular to Women
The National Stroke Association suggests that women have a different set of warning signs and symptoms. The symptoms particular to women having a stroke include the sudden onset of pain in the face and limbs, hiccups, nausea, weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath and heart palpitations.
Previous Transient Ischemic Attack
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is often referred to as a "mini-stroke" and has many of the same characteristics and symptoms of a stroke. The exception with a TIA is that this condition is symptomatic only for a period of 24 hours, with the bulk of the symptoms ending within one or two.
The University of Maryland Medical Center defines a TIA as a "brain attack" in which blood flow is constricted to the brain briefly because of the presence of a blood clot passing through. The significant difference between a TIA and a full stroke is not only the duration of symptoms but also the paralysis and brain damage that results from a major stroke. A TIA is, however, a warning sign that a bigger event is coming and should be regarded as a medical emergency for this reason.
