1. Sudden, Severe Headache What Happens: A sudden headache that feels unusually intense or different from normal headaches. What It Means: Could indicate bleeding in the brain or blocked blood vessels. 2. Weakness or Numbness What Happens: Numbness, tingling, or weakness, particularly on one side of the body (arm, leg, or face). What It Means: A lack of blood flow to certain areas of the brain. 3. Difficulty Speaking or Understanding What Happens: Slurred speech, difficulty forming words, or trouble understanding others. What It Means: The brain’s language center may be affected. 4. Vision Problems What Happens: Sudden blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes. What It Means: A stroke can damage areas of the brain responsible for vision. 5. Loss of Balance or Coordination What Happens: Trouble walking, dizziness, or sudden loss of coordination. What It Means: The cerebellum, which controls movement and balance, might be affected.
What to Do in an Emergency Act F.A.S.T.: Face: Is one side of the face drooping? Arms: Is there weakness in one arm? Speech: Is speech slurred or difficult? Time: Call emergency services immediately.
How to Lower Stroke Risk in Young People Maintain a balanced diet and avoid high-salt or high-fat foods. Stay active and manage weight to prevent hypertension. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Regularly monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
