Stroke is a serious health condition that occurs when the supply of oxygen to the brain is interrupted. Without timely treatment, it can be fatal or paralyzing within minutes. Therefore, stroke is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Although some strokes are sudden, in most cases, the body begins to show important warning signs weeks or months before a stroke.
Dr. Ravi Kesari, MD, general physician at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore, explains that a CVA, or stroke, is a condition that requires immediate medical attention. If these early symptoms are recognized early, providing the necessary treatment can prevent the severity of stroke, the risk of paralysis and even death. Let’s explore the symptoms that precede a stroke.
Constant and unusual headaches
Some people have headaches that are completely different from their usual headaches in the month before the stroke. These headaches come on suddenly, are more intense, and last longer. Sometimes the pain is accompanied by dizziness, nausea and blurred vision. This could be changes in blood flow to the brain or the onset of internal bleeding.
Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Sudden weakness, numbness, or tingling in the face, arm, or leg, especially in one part of the body, is a major warning sign of a stroke. This symptom may come and go for a few minutes, but don’t take it lightly. This indicates that the blood flow to that part of the brain is decreasing.
Difficulty speaking
In the early stages of a stroke, a person’s speech may be suddenly affected. Difficulty speaking, difficulty understanding sentences, or difficulty choosing the right words are all signs that the part of the brain that controls language is being affected. Such a situation should be treated as an immediate medical emergency.
Sudden vision problems
Many people experience sudden blurred vision, double vision, loss of vision in one eye, squinting, or inability to focus before a stroke. These symptoms occur because the part of the brain that controls vision is affected.
Dizziness and loss of balance
Frequent dizziness, stumbling and loss of balance can be caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. If these symptoms persist or worsen over several days or weeks, they may be a sign of a stroke.