A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain bursts or becomes clotted.The American Stroke Association states that stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States. If you or someone you know is having early signs of a stroke, it is important that you call 911 immediately. Having a stroke is a medical emergency that should be treated promptly to avoid disabling complications that can last a lifetime. It is important to know the early symptoms and seek emergency life-saving attention when necessary.
Numbness or Weakness and Difficulty Walking
Some people may present with numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body. This can be in the face, arms or legs. This happens when the brain loses its ability to communicate with muscles of the body. Sensory problems are another common early symptom of a stroke. Difficulty walking and dizziness are other signs of a stroke.
Sudden Confusion
Mental status changes, change in behavior and the inability to comprehend something he normally would is another sign that a person may be having a stroke. Sometimes the person loses inability to talk or perform tasks that he normally would be able to. Confused speech may be another presenting symptom.
Sudden Visual Changes
The inability to see or a sudden change in vision that is unusual is sometimes reported by people having a stroke. The person might also report blindness in one eye, a blind spot on one side of the visual field or blurred vision.
Severe Headache
A sudden painful headache with no known cause is another sign of a stroke. Nausea, fever and vomiting are sometimes reported.
TIAs
A TIA is a transient ischemic attack. The stroke symptoms come and then they go away. A TIA indicates that there is a high risk for a stroke to occur. It happens because there is a temporary interruption of the blood flow to the brain. Anyone who is having any stroke symptoms should seek emergency medical attention immediately.
