A stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery and reduces the amount of blood and oxygen to the brain. This lack of oxygen damages brain cells. The symptoms and effects of a stroke you experience depend on what cells are damaged. Some brain cells control speech, others control memory and some coordinate movement. Recognizing stroke signs will help you know when to seek medical care. The sooner you receive care the better your chances of reducing the damage caused by the stroke.
F.A.S.T.
The National Stroke Association suggests to use the act F.A.S.T method to determine if someone is having a stroke. F stands for face. Ask the person to smile and see if one side of his mouth or face droops. A is for arms. See if the person can lift both arms equally high or if one arm is lower. S stands for speech. Try asking the person to answer a simple question and see if the speech is slurred and if he or she can answer the question. T is for time which means that it is important to seek immediate medical attention if any of the above symptoms are present. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, "The window of opportunity to start treating stroke patients is three hours, but to be evaluated and receive treatment, patients need to get to the hospital within 60 minutes."
Additional Symptoms
Along with the above signs of a stroke look for numbness or weakness in the face, arms or legs especially if it is on just one side of the body. Another clue is if the victim suddenly has trouble speaking or appears to be dazed or confused. He may have a blank stare and appear to be unable to understand what you are saying.
Other Signs
If the victim suddenly has trouble walking, maintaining balance or coordinating muscle movements, you should seek help. Abrupt loss of vision, trouble seeing in one or both eyes and a severe unexplained headache can also be signs.
TIAs
The National Institutes of Health states that recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke are easy, because they come on suddenly. In some cases they last for just a short period, sometimes just seconds. These types of attacks are known as TIAs or transient ischemic attacks or "mini-strokes." These attacks mimic a stroke yet usually cause no permanent damage. This is unlike an actual stroke that can leave you disabled. Having one or more TIAs can signal an increased risk for a stroke. TIAs have the same signs and symptoms of a stroke listed above.
