Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, with an estimated 700,000 occurrences per year, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted as a result of an aneurysm, an abnormal widening of a blood vessel due to weakened blood vessel walls. Stroke often results in long-term disabilities, but if the symptoms are recognized early enough, advanced medical technologies can lessen the damage.
Balance and Coordination
Brain Aneurysm Resources notes that a common symptom prior to an aneurysm rupture is loss of balance and coordination. An aneurysm occurs as a result of blood concentrating in a vessel, usually around the arteries at the base of the brain. The vessel fills slowly or suddenly until a rupture occurs. Rupture signs include a drop in blood pressure, rapid heart rate and lightheadedness, which further impacts balance and coordination. A sudden difficulty in walking or dizziness with loss of balance indicates a stroke or an unruptured aneurysm. In this case, seeking medical attention immediately may prevent progression of symptoms.
Numbness and Weakness
Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body signifies a possible stroke. MayoClinic.com suggests raising both arms over the head; if one arm begins to fall, this may indicate a stroke is occurring. Paralysis of the arm, face or leg on either side of the body is a common symptom of a stroke. Facial drooping on one side also signifies a stroke or a carotid artery aneurysm. Additional signs of numbness on one side include drooling on the affected side of the face and the eye closing due to involuntary muscle contraction.
Speech, Sight and Headache
Sudden changes in speech, such as the slurring or an inability to form sentences, is a common symptom of a stroke. Dilated pupils and blurred or double vision also often accompanies the onset of vessel rupture, according to MayoClinic.com. Additionally, a sudden or unusual headache, combined with pain in the eyes, face or neck, can indicate a possible stroke. In some cases, there could also be nausea, vomiting and an altered level of consciousness.
References
- Brain Aneurysm Resources: Symptoms of Brain Aneurysms
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Know the Signs: Stroke Symptoms
- MayoClinic.com: Stroke Symptoms
- "International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery": Traumatic External Carotid Artery Aneurysm Causing Facial Nerve Paralysis April 1991
- Health Central: Facial Paralysis
