by SA Professional

Created on: July 26, 2009

5 Warning Signs of a Stroke

There are 5 warning signs of a stroke that you should be aware of due to the importance of reacting quickly and without any delay. Whether it is you having a stroke or someone you are with, dial 911 when you see any of these symptoms.

1. Sudden trouble with sight. Seeing double or having blurred vision.

2. Numbness in face, arms or face, especially on just one side of the body.

3. Sudden trouble with speech. Slurred or unable to talk accompanied with confusion.

4. Sudden trouble with walking or maintaining your balance

5. Sudden severe headache for no apparent reason

Act fast even if only one of the five symptoms is present. Immediate medical attention is necessary.

There are two kinds of strokes: one is transient ischemic attack also know as a TIA; and the other is a hemorrhagic stroke.

The TIA serves as a huge warning for a hemorrhagic stroke. A TIA occurs when a blood clot interferes with the flow of blood through an artery. It is a temporary cessation of blood flow and is often over within a few minutes and everything appears normal afterwards. You still need to see a doctor as soon as this happens. If the person with you recognizes the symptoms of the stroke, you should see the paramedics within a few minutes.

The warning bell has gone off with a TIA or mini stroke and you should heed the warnings. Not everyone who has had a TIA will suffer a hemorrhagic stroke, but there is reason for concern. The TIA causes symptoms, but no immediate or significant damage.

The hemorrhagic stroke is more serious. The TIA was just a rehearsal for a much more serious stroke. In a hemorrhagic stroke the blood leaks into the brain because a blood vessel ruptures.

Immediate medical attention is needed to save the life of such a patient. Suffering with a stroke for three hours or more kills brain cells and shuts off the blood supply to your brain which in fact means your brain does not get the necessary oxygen it needs. The symptoms are much worse than described before and includes nausea.

Due to the increased pressure in the brain, there can be irritability, neck stiffness, and vomiting. It is crucial to receive medical attention as soon as possible. If you delay, there could be serious permanent damage to the brain.

After a hemorrhagic stroke, it is also best to begin physical therapy as soon as you are able. If there has been considerable damage to your body, you may have to learn to walk and talk all over again. The prognosis is usually good, but it does take time and some of your physical abilities may never be regained.

A stroke is the third most common cause of death in the United States. What can you do to prevent a stroke?

1. Lower your blood pressure

2. Quit smoking if you smoke

3. Females: Find an alternate birth control besides the "Pill"

4. Limit alcohol consumption. 3 Or more drinks per day increase the risk.

5. Eat healthy, exercise regularly and learn stress management

Always be aware of the warning signs of a stroke. If you have trouble walking, talking, seeing, and feeling, you may be having a stroke.

Learn more about this author, SA Professional.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.