Diabetes can damage blood vessels over time. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, diabetics have twice the risk of developing a stroke as the average person. This risk is even higher if the person with diabetes is obese, smokes or has high cholesterol and blood pressure. Knowing the signs of stroke for diabetics is important, because early intervention is often key to recovery.
Weakness or Numbness
One of the first signs of stroke for diabetes is weakness or numbness. This weakness may develop gradually or suddenly. It is usually located on one side of the body, meaning the arm and leg on one side will feel weaker or heavier than the other side. A person with diabetes who has had a stroke may have trouble raising one arm as high as her other arm. She may also have difficulty supporting her weight on both legs. Additionally, according to the Mayo Clinic, one side of the body may feel numb, or like "pins and needles."
Facial Droop
Another common sign of stroke for diabetes is a facial droop. Because paralysis associated with stroke often affects one side of the body, one side of the face may appear expressionless. A person who has had a stroke may not be able to raise both eyebrows, and may only be able to smile with one side of his mouth.
Trouble Speaking
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse reports difficulty with speech--or understanding speech--as another sign of stroke for diabetics. A stroke can affect the muscles in the mouth, making speech difficult to coordinate. In addition, some types of strokes can affect the areas of the brain that are responsible for communication. A person who has just had a stroke may have trouble forming words, or may use words that don't make sense. She may also have trouble understanding what other people say to her. This symptom is called aphasia.
Confusion
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke lists confusion as one of the common symptoms of stroke. This confusion, however, is different than the speech difficulties commonly associated with stroke. A person who is confused may have trouble solving simple problems, or may not be able to perform his usual routine tasks without guidance. An example of this sign of stroke for diabetes is a person who suddenly cannot find his bathroom, or is unable to put on his jacket.
Visual Problems
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse reports that another potential sign of stroke for diabetes is a change in vision. A person who has had a stroke may have double vision, or blurry vision. In addition, she may have trouble seeing out of one eye. Some people are unaware of this problem. A person who as had a stroke may not be aware of items located on one side of her body. She may walk into objects without noticing them, or may only eat food on one half of her plate.
