Recognizing Symptoms Of A Stroke

Imagine you are having a quiet evening at home, reading a book.

You decide to get up and have a drink of water, but when you stand, you feel dizzy.

You give yourself a moment, but the dizziness doesn’t pass. You try to walk, but you have trouble, and feel uncoordinated, unbalanced.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may be having a stroke. According to the American Stroke Association, strokes are the third leading cause of death in America.

Here are the key warning signs of a stroke. If you or anyone you know experience these symptoms of a stroke, you should call 9-1-1 (or the emergency telephone number in your area) immediately.

  • Weakness or numbness in the face, arms or legs, especially if it comes on suddenly, and is primarily on one side of the body
  • Trouble talking or understanding which comes on suddenly
  • Trouble seeing from one or both eyes that occurs suddenly
  • Sudden trouble with your balance, coordination, or the onset of dizziness and trouble walking
  • Severe headache that occurs suddenly with no known cause

If you have high blood pressure, coronary artery or cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high cholesterol, or are overweight or inactive, you are at increased risk of having a stroke.

Talk to your doctor about making lifestyle changes or receiving medications that can help lower your risk of having a stroke.