Signs and Symptoms

Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke and getting medical treatment in the first 3 hours is critical in lowering the risk of disability and even death and to minimize the damage and maximize recovery. If you have a stroke caused by a clot, you may be able to receive the clot-busting drug t-PA.

A sudden change in someone's ability to function is not normal, and a "wait and see" attitude could mean a life of disability. Brain injury is progressive, so symptoms should not be ignored.

All of the major symptoms of stroke appear suddenly, and often there is more than one symptom at the same time. If you recognize any of these signs, even if they go away, call 911 (not the person’s doctor) immediately and tell the operator, paramedics, or emergency room staff, “I think this is a stroke”.

Women do not always experience the classic signs and symptoms of stroke.

See Women and Stroke.

What are the warning signs?

Sudden numbness, weakness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body

Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, drowsiness or loss of balance and coordination, especially when associated with any of the other symptoms

Questions to ask?