A stroke occurs when the brain no longer receives blood flow. As a result, your brain cells begin to die. Since the brain is the main control center of the body, various parts of your body will be affected.
Time is of the essence when it comes to preventing a stroke. Recognizing the signs as early on as possible will ensure that you can make it to emergency care in time. If you or your doctor fail to recognize your condition as soon as possible, the consequences could be fatal. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to have a basic knowledge of what having a stroke feels and looks like.
Numbness on One Side Of The Body
A stroke usually comes on suddenly. One of the first effects is a sudden loss of feeling on one side of the body, frequently the face. If you start feeling tingly or numb on one side of your body, try smiling, or lifting a limb. If you aren’t able to follow through with the action, it’s a strong indication that what you’re experiencing is, in fact, a stroke.
Difficulty Speaking
When experiencing a stroke, the area of your brain, which controls speech is affected. If you have difficulty speaking or understanding what’s going on around you, this is known as aphasia.
The confusion and inability to communicate is a result of lack of blood. Stroke victims may start to sound drunk or disoriented.
Blurry Vision
When a stroke occurs, someone may start to see double vision or even lose sight altogether. Confusion sets in and they may not be able to tell where they are or who is around them. They may not be able to tell the difference between their own hands or someone else’s.
Loss Of Coordination
When your stroke occurs in the area of the brain, which controls movement, stroke sufferers may start to tip or fall over. A loss of coordination similar to drinking too much sets in, as the victim appears unsteady.
Extreme Headache
One of the most obvious symptoms of a stroke is a severe headache which comes on suddenly for no apparent reason. It’s usually so painful that the person becomes unable to focus on anything else.
The reason for the pain is usually because they are hemorrhaging in their brain. If you notice a headache accompanied by any of the other symptoms, it’s safe to assume that a stroke is taking place.
Being able to recognize the telltale signs of a stroke is a matter of life and death. People who are treated as early on as possible have a much greater chance of surviving without suffering a long term disability.
If you feel any of these symptoms yourself or see them in someone else, call emergency services immediately.
