A stroke, also called a brain attack, occurs when the brain's oxygen supply is limited in some way. This can be caused by a bleed or a blockage in the brain's blood vessels. According to Medline Plus, hospital treatment during the initial phase of stroke can sometimes stop it from getting worse. It is important to recognize the common immediate post-stroke symptoms in order to get treatment as soon as possible.
Sudden Severe Headache
A person who is having a stroke may develop a sudden, painful headache with no apparent cause. The Mayo Clinic reports that a headache caused by stroke may be accompanied by other symptoms, including facial pain (such as between the eyes) or a stiff neck. If a sudden headache occurs in combination with other common stroke symptoms, such as confusion or visual problems, immediate medical attention is needed.
Confusion
According to Medline Plus, someone who is having a stroke may suddenly seem confused. They may have difficulty finding words, or may not seem to understand conversations. They may also have trouble solving routine, everyday tasks. For instance, a person having a stroke may suddenly forget what they were doing, or may have difficulty with a simple task such as putting on a shoe.
Visual Problems
The Mayo Clinic reports that when a person suddenly has trouble seeing out of one or both eyes, a stroke is probable. Visual problems are another common immediate sign of stroke. Vision may become blurry, or suddenly out of focus. A person having a stroke may also experience double vision, or the loss of one side of their visual field.
One-Sided Weakness
Sudden weakness, especially on one side of the body, is another common immediate sign of stroke. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) reports that this weakness usually occurs on one side of the body. A person who has just had a stroke may suddenly feel that one arm is heavier than the other, or may have trouble lifting their arm. This weakness may also be present in the legs. A person may have difficulty holding weight on one of their legs, making it difficult to stand or walk. They may fall or trip while attempting to do so.
Loss of Sensation
Another immediate sign of stroke is a sudden loss of sensation. The NINDS reports that like weakness, sensation loss often occurs on one side of the body. A person may feel that one arm is suddenly numb, or they may feel pins and needles. This numbness can occur in the face as well.
Facial Droop
A sudden facial droop or difficulty controlling facial muscles is another early sign of stroke. Someone who is having a stroke may have a lopsided smile or expression, where only one side of the face moves. One eye may droop or remain partially closed. In addition, they may suddenly have slurred speech, as weakness can affect the muscles that control the mouth and tongue as well.
