Stroke & Neuroscience

Strokes are caused by the interruption of blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which causes brain damage and often results in permanent, severe disabilities or death. During a stroke, every minute makes a difference. That is why it is important to know when a stroke is occurring.

Following are the most common symptoms of stroke. If you or a loved one has any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Rapid treatment provides the best chance for a full recovery.

Stroke symptoms may include:

• Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding
• Sudden blurred vision, dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
• Sudden problems with coordination, movement or walking
• Sudden, severe headaches with no known cause

Other, less common symptoms of stroke may include the following:

• Sudden nausea, vomiting or fever not caused by a viral illness
• Brief loss or change of consciousness, such as fainting, confusion or seizures

All of these warning signs may or may not occur with each stroke. Do not ignore any of these signs, even if they go away, as they may indicate other medical conditions or problems, including a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or “mini-stroke.” TIA stroke symptoms last less than 24 hours and typically do not cause permanent brain damage, but they are a clear stroke warning sign and should be taken very seriously.

The acronym “FAST” is an easy way to remember common warning signs of a stroke and action steps you should take in the event that one occurs:

F – Face numbness or tingling
A – Arm weakness or paralysis
S – Speech abnormality
T – Time is critical. Act now!
Remember – if you or a loved one exhibits stroke warning signs, call 911 immediately.