Look for these signs and symptoms if you think you or someone you know is having a stroke: Sudden trouble speaking and understanding what others are saying. Paralysis or numbness of the face, arm or leg on one side of the body. Problems seeing in one or both eyes, trouble walking, and a loss of balance.

Context Explanation

Every stroke is a little bit different because any area of the brain can be affected by a stroke. Some strokes lead to only mild symptoms, and others are more severe and have a major impact on speech, strength, swallowing, walking, and vision. Overview A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a short period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke. It's caused by a brief blockage of blood flow to the brain.

Insight Material

A TIA usually lasts only a few minutes and doesn't cause long-term damage. Since the symptoms of TIA and stroke are the same, if you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away. You may have tests such as magnetic resonance imaging, also called MRI, or a computerized tomography scan, also called a CT scan, to help determine what caused your TIA. Other tests look for heart or blood vessel ... If someone you're with has signs of a stroke, stay with the person until an ambulance arrives.

Final Conclusion

Note the time when symptoms first appear. Share this information with emergency healthcare professionals when they arrive. Prevention You can lower your risk of having a second stroke by taking these steps: Get information on what caused your stroke. Common symptoms of stroke include: Weakness or numbness on one side of the face, arm or leg Trouble speaking or understanding Loss of vision Dizziness Sometimes a blood vessel is blocked only briefly and symptoms are temporary. This is referred to as a transient ischemic attack. A transient ischemic attack still requires medical attention because it may be a warning that you could have a more ...

A sudden rise in blood pressure over 180/120 mm Hg is considered a medical emergency, or crisis. It can lead to a stroke. Know the symptoms. New York Post on MSN: The common warning signs of a ‘mini stroke’ — and who’s most at risk