About 15 Minutes Before a Stroke, the Body Often Sends 4 Distinct Signals
Strokes don’t always happen without warning. In many cases, the body gives subtle but important signals shortly before a stroke occurs. Recognizing these signs early can make a life-saving difference.
Knowing what to watch for isn’t about panic—it’s about preparedness.
Why Early Warning Signs Matter
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is disrupted. When this happens, the brain may struggle to control movement, speech, or vision.
Medical care works best the sooner it begins, which is why paying attention to early symptoms is so important.
The 4 Signals to Watch For
About minutes before a stroke, many people experience one or more of the following signs:
1. Sudden Weakness or Numbness
This often affects:
One side of the face
One arm
One leg
A common clue is difficulty lifting an arm or a sudden drooping sensation on one side.
2. Trouble Speaking or Understanding
This may include:
Slurred speech
Trouble finding words
Difficulty understanding simple sentences
Someone may sound confused or struggle to respond clearly.
3. Vision Problems
Warning signs can include:
Blurred vision
Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
Trouble seeing clearly on one side
These changes can appear suddenly and without pain.
4. Sudden Dizziness or Loss of Balance
This may show up as:
Difficulty walking
Loss of coordination
A spinning or unsteady feeling
It can feel very different from ordinary tiredness or clumsiness.
The FAST Rule (Easy to Remember)
Doctors often use the FAST method to recognize stroke symptoms:
Face drooping
Arm weakness
Speech difficulty
Time to get help immediately
If any of these appear, it’s important to act right away.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you or someone nearby shows these symptoms:
Tell a trusted adult immediately
Call emergency services right away
Do not wait to see if symptoms go away
Even if the signs disappear, medical attention is still essential.
Who Should Be Extra Aware
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