If you thought that stroke only affects elderly, it’s time to think again. Unfortunately, people at any age can have a stroke. One of the most important things is developing an ability to recognize the early signs of stroke, and ask for medical help. We give you the most common early signs of stroke.
Blurry vision / Loss of vision
The entire process first starts in your eyes. It can affect either one or your both eyes. About 44% of stroke sufferers have experienced loss of vision before their stroke.
Sudden headache / Vertigo
Vertigo almost always occurs in women under 45. This is a clear sign that you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.
Trouble speaking and understanding speech
In some parts of the day, the tiny confusions are often unnoticed. Feeling delirious and being able to speak often results in confusion.
Loss of balance / Trouble walking
An unexpected feeling of general weakness and sluggishness in upper and lower limbs may indicate a stroke. Some sufferers experience paralysis and collapse. Paralysis is a common sign of stroke, and it definitely requires medical attention.
Here’s a good test for this symptom. Open your arms wide with the palms up, and hold them in this position for 10 seconds. If one of your arms drops, your muscles are weak.
Pain in (one side of) the face
Stroke isn’t always accompanied with pain, but if you feel sudden pain stabs in your extremities or one side of your face, you may be dealing with stroke pretty soon.
Headaches and migraine
This is also a common symptom of stroke. Scientists have found that 588 of their volunteers who had a stroke with sharp headache were young individuals who often deal with migraine. Studies have shown that this is more common in women.
Facial paralysis
It’s one of the most common symptoms of stroke, and usually only one side of the face is paralyzed.
Fatigue
According to studies, women often deal with fatigue, confusion, and disorientation, which isn’t the case with men. Each of these is a clear sign of stroke.
Hiccups
This early symptom is more common in women. The stroke attacks the breathing center in the brain, and thus causes hiccups.
Inability to catch breath / Tremors
Sudden loss of breath and difficulty breathing are often present in stroke sufferers. The heart arrhythmia occurs as a result of the lack of oxygen.
Prevention is always the best cure. Eat healthy, be more active, and sleep well. Cut down on your alcohol and cigarettes, and pay more attention to your weight.
