A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off. This “brain attack” can cause brain cells to die, resulting in serious consequences--such as paralysis, trouble speaking, problems thinking clearly, and death.
Symptoms Strike Suddenly
The warning signs of a stroke appear suddenly and are often noticed by others around you. The “classic” symptoms include:
- Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg--especially on only one side of the body
- Poor balance and/or stumbling
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech or trouble speaking or understanding others
- Severe headache with no apparent cause
- Vision problems in one or both eyes
Incidence, Symptoms Different for Women and Men
When comparing age groups, more men than women have a stroke. However, women are more likely than men to die from a stroke.
Another difference between the genders is that women and men may experience different stroke warning signs. Nontraditional symptoms that women may report include:
- Hallucination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Disorientation
- Shortness of breath
- Seizures
Spotting all the possible signs of a stroke early on can make a major difference in how much brain damage occurs. Getting to the hospital and receiving treatment within 60 minutes may even prevent serious, long-term problems.
If you or someone you know has any of the symptoms mentioned here, don’t put off getting help. Call 911 right away.
Cutting-Edge Care
Norwalk and Danbury Hospitals are the only facilities in Fairfield County to offer a breakthrough treatment called mechanical thrombectomy to treat ischemic stroke. Watch a short video to learn more.