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Signs and Symptoms of Stroke
A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident, occurs when the blood supply to
the brain is cut off (an ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel bursts (a
hemorrhagic stroke). Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die. Death or
permanent disability can result. High blood pressure, smoking, and having
had a previous stroke or heart attack increase a person’s chances of having
a stroke. With timely treatment, the risk of death and disability from
stroke can be lowered. It is very important to know the symptoms of a stroke
and act right away. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and
Stroke notes these five major signs of stroke:
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arms, or legs.
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding others.
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination.
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
All of the major symptoms of stroke appear suddenly, and often there is
more than one symptom at the same time. If you think someone is
having a stroke, you should call 9–1–1 or emergency medical services
immediately. Receiving immediate treatment is critical in lowering the
risk of disability and even death. Fact sheet
Know the signs and symptoms of
stroke
Page last reviewed: May 12, 2008
Page last modified: May 12, 2008
Content source: Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention,
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and
Health Promotion
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