Stroke is a devastating and crippling condition that oftentimes occurs suddenly and without warning. According to the MedlinePlus, there are two types of stroke: ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot lodges into your brain's blood vessels and prevents blood flow to it. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when the blood vessels in your brain burst and leak blood into your brain. Regardless of whether you suffer from an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, the classic symptoms are the same.
Headache
According to the Mayo Clinic, headache is a typical symptom for stroke sufferers. This headache is usually sudden in nature and can be so severe that it wakes you from sleep, says MedlinePlus. In some cases, a stiff neck, facial pain and loss of consciousness can occur simultaneously with this excruciating headache. Do not ignore severe headaches and think of them as "just a migraine." Go to your local emergency room or call 911 to get immediate medical assistance.
Muscle Problems and Numbness
Stroke can also cause hemiparalysis (muscle weakness and numbness on one side of your body). This weakness can lead to trouble walking, lack of coordination and unsteadiness, says MedlinePlus. If you suspect a stroke, do not try to walk or stand up. You may become dizzy and injure yourself in a fall. Over time, your muscles may become spastic (tight) and your toes can curl, says the American Stroke Association.
Speech and Visual Problems
Depending on the location of the bleeding or clot, a stroke can affect your speech or vision. According to the Mayo Clinic, you may develop slurred speech (dysarthria) or have problems thinking about words. Slowness in thinking is medically known as aphasia. In a stroke, your vision may become blurry. In some cases, you may have temporary blindness or double vision.
Other Symptoms
According to MedlinePlus, you may also experience hearing problems, drowsiness, trouble swallowing (dysphagia), trouble writing and reading and incontinence. The American Stroke Association says stroke can seriously affect your psyche. Stroke can damage your brain and unbalance certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain and cause depression. Symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness, anxiousness, hopelessness and guilt. You may develop restlessness, insomnia and changes in your appetite or weight. Talk to your doctor if you experience these symptoms because treatment is available. In severe cases, stroke can lead to personality changes and hemi-neglect, a condition in which the patient neglects half of something. For example, hemi-neglect sufferers may draw only half a clock or they may only dress only one side of their body.
