A stroke or a “brain attack” can have life-threatening consequences just like a heart attack. However, there are some early signs of a stroke that start showing up as early as a month before it actually happens. Here are seven such symptoms—knowing them might save someone’s life.
Strokes happen when a blood vessel transporting oxygen to the brain bursts or gets obstructed by a clot. As a result, the brain doesn’t receive much oxygen and the brain cells start to die off. The functions controlled by the affected part of the brain will not be performed normally, and this will have a huge impact on health.
A stroke can manifest differently in every individual, but one thing in common is that it initiates suddenly. Read below the most common symptoms that manifest one month before a stroke, and if you are experiencing any of these, think about consulting your doctor.
#1. Unexpected numbness or weakness of the face, arms, or legs (usually on one side of person’s body)
Stroke usually affects one hemisphere of the brain; thus, the effects of the stroke are visible only on one side of the body. If you notice an uneven smile on a person’s face, this is a warning sign. Numbness or weakness in one of the arms can also be a warning sign.
#2. Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting
If you notice sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or trouble walking, you should consider contacting your doctor—as the symptoms could be signaling a possible brain attack.
#3. Sudden vision problems
A stroke can affect the area of the brain that controls vision. So be alert; if you are experiencing a sudden loss of vision, that could be a sign of a stroke.
#4. A pounding headache that comes suddenly and without reason
A stroke can be the cause of a sudden, intense headache that doesn’t seem natural. Try keeping track of this from now on. If you find that you are experiencing headaches for no obvious reasons, this may be an early indication of a stroke.
#5. Unforeseen difficulty in speaking and understanding
Trouble with understanding things that usually were never a problem or sudden confusion are also consequences of a stroke.
#6. Loss of coordination, unsteadiness
If you start experiencing sudden loss of coordination, that is, in one moment you are fine but in the next you feel dizzy and can’t move properly, then don’t ignore such hints that your body is giving you; these may be signs of a stroke.
#7. Shortness of breath
An unexpected difficulty in breathing can also accompany a stroke. If this happens, it should be a warning—don’t ignore it. Remember, early detection is crucial. So, don’t wait if you are experiencing any one of these symptoms, and visit your doctor.