Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability around the world, according to the World Stroke Organization. Despite that being the case, many people are still unaware of the signs that may indicate an impending stroke. Knowing the signs and what to do could save your life. Here are 13 hidden signs that you shouldn’t ignore.
1. Sudden Numbness or Weakness
If you experience sudden numbness or weakness, especially if it is on one side of the body, this is a symptom of a stroke. This might impact the face, arm, or leg. Usually, it comes on without any warning. If you notice this, you should seek medical attention immediately. Taking action early can improve the overall outcome and reduce your risk of having a long-term disability.
2. Confusion or Trouble Speaking
Another symptom of a stroke is having trouble speaking or understanding language. You might also suddenly feel confused. This happens because the brain’s language centers are affected by a stroke. If you notice this symptom in yourself or someone else, you need to act fast. Every moment counts.
3. Vision Problems
A stroke can lead to a sudden onset of vision problems. You might experience blurred vision, double vision, or even a loss of vision in one or both of your eyes. This could be temporary or permanent, depending on how severe the stroke is. Get medical help as soon as possible if you experience any sudden changes in your vision.
4. Dizziness or Loss of Balance
Dizziness and a loss of balance can be signs of a stroke as well. These symptoms occur when the part of your brain that controls balance and coordination is affected by the medical event. If you feel dizzy all of a sudden or have trouble walking, you should get to the hospital right away.
5. Severe Headache
The sudden onset of a severe headache with no known cause can also be a warning sign of a stroke. A headache that is associated with a stroke is often described as the worst headache anyone can experience. It might be accompanied by nausea or vomiting as well. Anyone experiencing a sudden, intense headache should get medical attention immediately.
6. Difficulty Swallowing
The muscles you use to swallow can be affected by a stroke. If you suddenly have trouble swallowing, it can be a sign of an impending stroke. You might feel like it is hard to swallow or food might even get stuck in your throat. If that’s the case, seek medical help as quickly as possible.
7. Fatigue or Weakness
If you are experiencing unexplained fatigue or weakness, it can be a subtle sign of a stroke. Oftentimes, people overlook this symptom, especially if it comes on little by little. However, if you notice a sudden increase in fatigue or weakness, you should consider the possibility of a stroke.
8. Nausea or Vomiting
Sudden nausea or vomiting, especially when it is accompanied by any of the other stroke symptoms, can be concerning. Your brain’s control centers for nausea and vomiting might be impacted by a stroke. Anyone experiencing sudden nausea or vomiting should get medical help right away.
9. Shortness of Breath
Another sign of a stroke is shortness of breath, especially if it happens without any obvious reason. This could indicate a lack of oxygen getting to the brain. Get medical help right away if you find yourself suddenly short of breath.
10. Chest Pain
Although chest pain is frequently associated with heart attacks, it can also be a sign of a stroke. The medical event can impact the brain’s control centers for the heart. Chest pain should not be ignored and, if it is accompanied by any other stroke symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
11. Hiccups
Hiccups are a lesser-known sign of a stroke and can appear in women. The brain’s control centers for the diaphragm can be affected by a stroke. Sudden, persistent hiccups could possibly signal a stroke.
12. Facial Drooping
This is a classic sign of a stroke. If you notice facial drooping, especially on one side, you should seek out medical help right away. This symptom occurs when the muscles on one side of the face become weak or paralyzed.
13. Sudden Behavioral Changes
Sudden behavioral changes shouldn’t be ignored. If you are irritable, confused, or experiencing memory problems out of the blue, it can be a sign of a stroke. The control centers for behavior and cognition can be damaged when you have a stroke. If you find that you have any sudden and unexplained changes in behavior, get help from a medical professional.
Knowing the Signs of a Stroke Can Save Your Life
Being aware of the hidden signs of a stroke could potentially save your life. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to medical professionals for help. Early intervention could make a huge difference in the outcome and can help improve recovery time.