A stroke is a condition where brain cells are deprived of oxygen-carrying blood and die. Strokes often result in brain damage, paralysis, pain, and the loss of the ability to speak and swallow. Strokes can be fatal. They are often caused by high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity or smoking. In most cases, strokes come on suddenly, with no prior symptoms. In some cases, though, strokes are preceded by a transient ischemic attack, or TIA. There are several symptoms that may indicate a TIA, warranting immediate emergency medical care.
Paralysis
During a TIA or a stroke, the patient may experience paralysis on one side of the body. The affected side may feel numb or tingly, and the patient may be unable to lift both arms or both legs to the same level. This weakness or paralysis may only last for a few minutes or a few hours, but is an indicator that a stroke may be impending.
Trouble Walking, Talking or Seeing
TIA victims often can not repeat a sentence or find the right word in the middle of a conversation. Their speech may be slurred. Along with a lack of coordination that numbness on one side of the body might produce, TIA and stroke victims may suddenly lose their sense of balance and fall or be unable to walk. Another symptom of an impending stroke is a loss or change in vision in one or both eyes. Suddenly experiencing double vision or blurriness is a reason to suspect stroke and get emergency care.
Severe Headache
Any sudden headache that is severe enough to make you vomit, lose your balance, or drift out of consciousness may indicate a TIA or stroke. This headache may consist of severe facial pain or pressure, or pain between the eyes. It may also be accompanied by a stiff neck. Even if this type of headache lasts only a few minutes, seek the care of a doctor.
