Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is reduced or absent. Damage to the brain occurs because the brain cells receive little to no oxygen. Approximately 795,000 Americans have strokes each year, and about 25 percent die from them, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Due to the damage strokes cause to the brain, approximately 15 to 30 percent become permanently disabled. Recognizing stroke symptoms and immediately calling 911 can reduce the amount of brain damage and even save someone's life, according to the American Heart Association.
Numbness or Weakness
An initial symptom of stroke, numbness or weakness typically occurs on one side of the body, particularly in the face, arm or leg. If the face is affected, for example, one side will droop.
Having the individual try to smile will display the drooping on the one side of the face. To check for weakness in the arms, have the individual put his arms at his sides, and then have him lift his arms straight out so they are parallel to the floor. If he is unable to lift one arm as high as the other, or if cannot lift one arm, he may be suffering from a stroke.
Trouble Speaking
An individual suffering from a stroke suddenly may have trouble speaking properly and may slur her words. Test her by asking her name. A person who slurs her words or has long pauses between each word is exhibiting a cardinal symptom of stroke.
Confusion
Another sign of stroke, sudden confusion, occurs when the individual cannot comprehend or retain information. This symptom is easily recognizable if the person already is engaged in a conversation. You will notice that one minute, he is addressing the relevant topic at hand but suddenly will not understand what has been said or will have trouble understanding you.
It is important to then ask the individual easy questions such as his name, birthday or where he lives. The cardinal symptom of stroke associated with confusion involves the person hesitating before answering or not knowing the answer to the question.
Trouble Seeing
Eyesight, in one or both eyes, may be impeded during a stroke. As with the other signs, impaired eyesight will occur suddenly. The individual's vision will be blurred or she may not be able to see anything. Hold a number of fingers approximately 2 feet from her face and ask her how many fingers she sees. Trouble seeing related to stroke causes a person to have difficulty seeing the number.
Loss of Balance or Coordination
Individuals who experience stroke usually lose their balance due to sudden dizziness. To test for this symptom, have the person put her at her sides and then try to touch her nose with the pointer finger of one hand. Difficulty performing this task could mean she is suffering from a stroke.
