What are common symptoms of a stroke?

The symptoms of a stroke are critical to recognize quickly for timely medical intervention. Sudden weakness or numbness, particularly on one side of the body, confusion, and difficulty speaking are hallmark signs of a stroke. This constellation of symptoms is part of the FAST acronym commonly used to identify stroke: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services.

When a stroke occurs, either due to a blockage of blood flow (ischemic stroke) or a bleed (hemorrhagic stroke), the affected areas of the brain do not receive adequate blood and oxygen, leading to these specific neurological deficits. Recognizing these symptoms can make the difference in treatment options and can significantly affect long-term outcomes.

Other options may describe symptoms related to different medical conditions but do not encapsulate the specific and urgent symptoms associated with a stroke.