|
Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. This disruption is caused when a clot blocks one of the vital blood vessels in the brain, or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.
Call 9-1-1 immediately if you recognize any signs of stroke. Do not wait to see if the symptoms go away – you could delay potentially life-saving treatment.
Symptoms of Stroke
- 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
Women vs. Men
Women have a higher rate of disability and death from stroke than men. Why? A new study suggests that women’s stroke symptoms are less typical and may go unrecognized. Women are much more likely than men to report:
- Headache
- Facial discomfort
- Pain in an arm or leg on one side of the body
- Change in consciousness, such as blacking out
- Unusual neurological symptoms, including nausea and hiccups
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
A TIA, often referred to as a “mini-stroke,” can cause many of the same symptoms as a stroke, but 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.
|
