Recognizing the Symptoms of a Stroke

Last updated 3 years ago

Survivors of stroke often face lifelong disabilities. Fortunately, the sooner a stroke victim reaches the nearest hospital, the better his or her chances of survival and a favorable long-term outcome. Hospital outreach initiatives often focus on raising awareness of the symptoms of stroke to help increase survival rates. The symptoms of stroke occur suddenly, without warning. If you notice any of the following health issues, arrange for emergency transportation to your local hospital.

Mobility Challenges

If an individual abruptly begins to experience mobility impairment, he or she should be rushed to the hospital. Stroke often causes coordination problems, such as difficulty walking, dizziness, and loss of balance. Additionally, weakness or numbness on one side of the body can interfere with mobility. The weakness and numbness can also occur in the face and arms. You can ask a possible stroke victim to raise his or her arms parallel to the floor and observe whether one arm drifts downward.

Functional Impairment

The blockage of blood flow to the brain that is characteristic of a stroke typically causes functional impairment. For example, a victim of stroke may experience sudden problems with his or her vision. He or she may complain of blurriness or blindness. Additionally, stroke can lead to abrupt confusion. The individual may suddenly have difficulty comprehending language and communicating.

Discomfort

Stroke can lead to significant discomfort. While it’s common for adults to experience headaches from time to time, a headache associated with stroke is often described as the worst headache imaginable. It occurs suddenly and cannot be attributed to other possible causes, such as head injuries. Stroke can cause other forms of discomfort, such as the sudden onset of nausea and vomiting.

If you or someone else could be having a stroke, don’t delay in calling 911 for immediate transportation to a hospital. Memorial Hospital of Tampa provides emergency care to residents of Tampa who experience the symptoms of stroke and other medical emergencies. Visit our community hospital on the Web at www.memorialhospitaltampa.com to learn more or connect with our Consult-A-Nurse referral line at (813) 873-6400.