How to Spot the Warning Signs of Stroke

Stroke runs in my family. My father had a stroke, due to a brain tumor. My sister had a stroke around ten years ago. She had another stroke over the weekend. Thankfully her family spotted the warning signs and dialed 911 immediately.

My sisters second stroke prompted me to write this article. Stroke is a potentially deadly medical emergency. Learn to spot the warning signs of a stroke. The life you save could be your own, or the life of someone you love!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Warning signs of a stroke could include any of the following symptoms.
   
   Numbness, tingling, or weakness of the face, arms or legs, especially if the numbness is located on one side of the body.

2. Difficulty speaking or understanding what is being said when spoken to.

3. Blurred vision or loss of sight, in one or both eyes.

4. Sudden, severe and unexplained headache.

5. Difficulty walking, such as stumbling or falling down.

6. Uncontrollable twitching of the face, arms or legs, especially on one side of the body.

7. Transient ischemic attack, also called TIA's, is described as a mini stroke, which only lasts for a few minutes, without any long term side affects. These are a warning sign of a larger stroke in the future.
   
   My sister was having TIA's but she did not know it. She just called them her little episodes and thought little about them, because they lasted such a short time.
   
   If you suspect that you are having TIA's, seek the advice of a medical professional immediately!

Tips & Warnings

• Warning signs of a stroke are not all the same for each individual. Some of the warning signs of stroke may be present with others not listed here.
• If you suspect you are witnessing the warning signs of a stroke, do not hesitate! Call 911 immediately. Getting medical attention quickly could be the difference between life or death.
• This article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness. It is to be used only as an informational source.

[mommyhen42]

on 7/21/2009 I am glad you mentioned TIA's in this article they are an important warning signal that many people tend to ignore.

[goodselfme]

on 7/6/2009 Good topic, wonderful info and so well composed. TX. I am your friend on another site. Come see if you recognize me. I miss you a lot. 5*

[MyJB]

on 6/14/2009 Informative article explaining the warning signs of a stroke. Thanks for letting us know that sometimes the person having the stroke doesn't even know.

[sanderdoe]

on 6/3/2009 Great information to share on spotting the signs of stroke. It runs in my family as well. Thanks for sharing your expertise. 5*

[sonni57]

on 5/29/2009 Thanks for the warning signs for stroke you can't be too careful