Stroke Signs and SymptomsThe signs and symptoms are the same for both types of stroke: ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. If you experience any of the stroke signs or symptoms discussed below, CALL 911 or go to the EMERGENCY ROOM IMMEDIATELY. You have very little time before damage from a stroke to brain tissue becomes permanent.
Ischemic Stroke:
- SUDDEN numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on 1 side of the body
- SUDDEN confusion
- SUDDEN difficulty speaking or understanding
- SUDDEN decrease or loss of vision in 1 or both eyes
- SUDDEN onset of dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking
- SUDDEN severe headache (worst headache of your life)
Hemorrhagic Stroke:
- SUDDEN numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on 1 side of the body
- SUDDEN confusion
- SUDDEN difficulty speaking or understanding
- SUDDEN decrease or loss of vision in 1 or both eyes
- SUDDEN onset of dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking
- SUDDEN severe headache (worst headache of your life)
- SUDDEN loss of consciousness or coma (more likely in hemorrhagic stroke)
What To Do If You Think You’re Having a Stroke?
CALL 911!!! A Stroke is an Emergency.
Ischemic stroke symptoms occur suddenly and frequently without warning. It is essential to seek treatment (CALL 911 or go to the EMERGENCY ROOM) IMMEDIATELY if you are concerned that you are having a stroke. You have VERY little time before damage to brain tissue becomes permanent. After the damage becomes permanent, you are far less likely to recover any functionality that you lost due to the stroke.
EMG Health Homepage: Men’s Health Introduction
External Resources: NIH: Stroke Signs and Symptoms
References1. Jauch EC. Ischemic Stroke. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1916852-overview: Medscape Reference; 2012.2. Lebieskind DS. Hemorrhagic Stroke. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1916662-overview: Medscape Reference; 2012.