A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain becomes clogged or begins to leak, according to Cedar-Sinai Medical Center. Without sufficient blood supply, nerve cells in the brain become damaged and unable to carry out body functions properly. Symptoms of a stroke often strike fast and become worse over time without treatment. Someone having a stroke needs immediate medical care to stop the cause of the stroke and reduce long-term complications or death. Recognizing sudden stroke symptoms can lead to faster treatment, and a better outcome.
Weakness
Sudden weakness is a sign of stroke that can be very apparent. Weakness usually appears suddenly and affects one side of the body or the other. A person may suddenly slump to one side while sitting or have trouble lifting her arm or leg. She may feel pins and needles going through extremities on either side of the body. Facial muscles may also be weak. A noticeable droop may be seen on one side of the mouth, and only one side of the mouth may move if the victim tries to smile.
Testing for sudden weakness can be done by asking the person to hold her arms out straight in front of her body. If she is unable to hold up one or both arms, or one arm stays in place while the other drifts down to her lap, suspect a stroke is taking place, especially if combined with additional symptoms.
Slurred Speech
Difficulty speaking and slurred speech are fast symptoms of stroke. During a stroke, blood supply may be reduced and affect the brain's ability to process functions like speech, movement and memory. A person having a stroke may have a difficult time speaking; words may be jumbled, incoherent or incomplete. Family Doctor.org advises that some people may lose the ability to speak completely during a stroke.
Confusion
A person having a stroke may be suddenly confused. She may not be able to recall recent events, such as what was eaten earlier in the day, be unable to remember her own name, the date or month. She may appear confused when spoken to and unable to give an appropriate answer when asked simple questions. Sudden fatigue or the inability to remain awake and alert may accompany sudden confusion.
Dizziness
Sudden dizziness and lack of coordination can affect someone having a stroke. Walking will be difficult, with frequent stumbling or an uneven gait. Movements will appear uncoordinated and the stroke victim may not be able to move more than a few steps without losing balance. He may complain of blurred vision, sudden headache or trouble seeing in conjunction with dizziness as well.
