Stroke: 6 Signs To Recognize

1 min

Knowing the signs of stroke is crucial, as prompt treatment is necessary to help reduce the damage that can be caused by sudden interruption of the brain’s blood supply. Be aware of these classic stroke symptoms and if you notice any be very aware of the time they first begin:

1. Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
2. Weakness or numbness on one side of the body, including the face
3. Difficulty speaking
4. Sudden disorientation, confusion or memory loss
5. Dizziness, loss of balance or loss of coordination
6. Severe headache that comes on suddenly with no apparent cause

The American Stroke Association suggests that anyone can identify a person having a stroke by checking for the signs of facial weakness, arm weakness and speech problems. As a bystander, you can help to determine if someone is having a stroke by asking them to perform three simple actions:

1. Ask the person to smile, look for an even smile from both sides of the mouth
2. Ask the person to raise both arms above his or her head
3. Ask the person to speak a simple sentence

If the person has any problems completing any of these steps, be sure to document the exact time of onset and call 911 immediately. Knowing the time a stroke starts is key to determine the best treatment at the point of care.

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