A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, which can cause brain cells to die. Recognizing the early signs of a stroke is crucial because it allows for prompt medical intervention, potentially saving lives and minimizing long-term damage. According to the image, here are four key symptoms that can occur about 15 minutes before a stroke:
1. Sudden Severe Headache
One of the early warning signs of a stroke is a severe, sudden headache. This headache may feel different from any headache you’ve had before and can be described as very intense. It may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting, which can signal an increased risk of a stroke.
2. Drooping on One Side of the Face
A stroke can cause facial weakness, which may lead to the drooping of one side of the face. If you or someone else notices that the face appears uneven or that it’s difficult to smile or raise both eyebrows equally, this could be a sign of a stroke. This symptom is easy to recognize by asking the person to smile and watching if one side of the face droops.
3. Difficulty Speaking or Slurred Speech
If a person suddenly has difficulty speaking or their speech becomes slurred, this could be another sign of a stroke. People who are having a stroke may have trouble forming words or may slur their speech. If this happens, it is important to get help immediately.
4. Sudden Weakness or Numbness in the Arm or Leg
Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm or leg, often on one side of the body, is a common stroke symptom. This may be noticeable when trying to raise both arms and one arm drops or feels weak. You may also notice difficulty walking, a loss of balance, or trouble coordinating movements.
If you or someone else experiences any of these symptoms, act FAST:
- Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
- Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- Time: If any of these signs are present, call emergency services immediately. Time is critical.
Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke is vital to ensuring quick treatment and minimizing brain damage. If you experience any of these symptoms or notice them in someone else, seek medical help immediately. Fast action can make all the difference when it comes to preventing long-term complications from a stroke.
If you’d like more information on stroke prevention or treatment, feel free to ask