Perhaps you know the stroke warning signs in others and are ready to call 911 or otherwise get that person the immediate help that he or she needs in order to recover as quickly as possible.
However, it is also important to know what those warning signs are from the perspective of the person experiencing a stroke in case you have one and are alone or with others who do not recognize the signs. This is especially important when you consider that the window of opportunity to successfully treat a stroke generally lasts just a few hours.
Severe, Sudden Headache
This is an important one to take note of as many do not realize that a sudden headache that is the most severe you have ever experienced could mean that you are experiencing a stroke.
Decreased Coordination or Loss of Feeling on One Side of Your Body
These warning signs are especially meaningful if either occurs without warning. Perhaps you cannot move your left arm as well as you used to a few seconds before or you simply cannot move it at all. It may also prove difficult to walk because you can no longer move one of your legs, or you may have trouble seeing out of both eyes.
Difficulty Speaking
Suddenly being unable to talk as easily as you used to is another warning sign. In this case, you may have difficulty finding the words or you physically cannot speak or slur your words when you do.
Inability to Completely Understand Others
Being suddenly confused or forgetful when somebody else is attempting to communicate with you is a sign of a possible stroke as well.
Nausea or Vomiting
These symptoms are experienced by some having a stroke due to an increase in pressure within the brain.
If you experience any of these symptoms and are able, make sure to take note of what time they started occurring so that you can relay that information to those treating you in the ambulance and at the hospital. It helps them provide you with the best treatment possible.
It is also important to note that strokes can happen to anybody. Although there are people who may have increased odds for experiencing one due to their lifestyles, many of the 800,000 Americans who suffer a stroke every year are relatively young and lead healthy lives.
