Understanding Signs and Symptoms of Stroke Can Help Get Necessary Care Fast

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and one of the most common causes of disability.

However, the damage can often be minimized if medical care is provided quickly by highly trained clinical staff. To help ensure that patients who suffer from stroke receive the best treatment possible, Martin Memorial is certified as a primary stroke center by the Joint Commission.

Receiving immediate care is critical to limiting the amount of damage the brain suffers following a stroke. That’s why understanding the signs and symptoms of a stroke are so important.

Below are the most common symptoms of stroke. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. If any of these symptoms are present, call 911 right away. Treatment is most effective when started immediately.

Symptoms may be sudden and include:

• Weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding
• Problems with vision, such as dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or problems with balance or coordination
• Problems with movement or walking
• Severe headaches with no other known cause

All of the above warning signs will not necessarily occur with each stroke. Do not ignore any of the warning signs, even if they go away — take action immediately. The symptoms of stroke may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Other less common symptoms of stroke may include the following:
• Sudden nausea, vomiting or fever not caused by a viral illness
• Brief loss or change of consciousness, such as fainting, confusion, seizures or coma
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, which can cause many of the same symptoms as a stroke. However, TIA symptoms are transient and last for a few minutes or up to 24 hours.

Call for medical help immediately if you suspect a person is having a TIA, as it may be a warning sign that a stroke is about to occur. Not all strokes, however, are preceded by TIAs.