A stroke is similar to a heart attack, except that it affects the brain. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) reports that because of this, a stroke may be called a brain attack. Early intervention is key to stroke survival and recovery. In fact, treatment in the first 60 minutes following stroke is recommended by the NINDS. Learning to quickly recognize the symptoms following stroke is vital to a positive outcome.
Confusion
Following stroke, a person may demonstrate signs of confusion. They may forget what they are doing, or they might suddenly have problems completing routine tasks. If the stroke occurs in the area of the brain that controls problem-solving skills, even a task as simple as putting on a shoe can be difficult to carry out.
Speech Problems
Speech problems are also common after stroke. The Mayo Clinic reports that speech problems can range from difficulty forming words to difficulty understanding speech. The muscles in the mouth and tongue do not function correctly, causing speech difficulties and slurring of words. Additionally, if the language areas of the brain are affected by the stroke, a person might have trouble conjuring the right words or understanding conversations.
Coordination Problems
Coordination problems are another common symptom following stroke, according to the NINDS. A person might have trouble with hand coordination, finding it difficult to grasp and release objects. They might also over- or under-shoot when reaching for an item. Coordination problems can affect writing, and can also cause a person to spill food when they eat.
Muscle Weakness
Muscle weakness is another common symptom following stroke. According to the NINDS, muscle weakness usually affects one side of the body (a condition called hemiparesis). A person who has had a stroke might have trouble standing or walking due to weakness in one leg. They may also feel as if an arm or leg is heavy, making it difficult to move. Some people cannot move their affected limbs at all following stroke.
Sensory Problems
Sensory problems might be present following stroke. Medline Plus reports that following a stroke, a person can have numbness on one side of their body. They may also have feelings of pins and needles. Depending on which areas of the brain are affected, some people might experience "neglect," a condition in which they ignore objects or people situated on the side of their impairment. For example, if the right side of the body is impaired, the stroke victim might not acknowledge objects or people on that side of the body.
Facial Droop
Facial muscle weakness is also common after stroke, and is usually one-sided. Facial muscle weakness is easy to spot: following stroke, a person might have one eyelid that remains partially or fully closed, and one side of their mouth may droop. They may also have difficulty moving their tongue in certain directions, and often smile with one side of their mouth only. Facial weakness can also affect chewing and swallowing, making choking a hazard for some people following stroke.
