10 Early Warning Signs of a Stroke Everyone Should Know to Take Prompt Action

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel in the brain breaks and bleeds (hemorrhagic stroke). Because brain cells can be damaged quickly, recognizing symptoms and getting emergency help immediately is critical.

1. Sudden facial drooping

One side of the face may feel weak or numb.
The smile may appear uneven or one side may droop.

Quick check: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face fall?

2. Sudden weakness or numbness in an arm or leg

Often affects one side of the body.
A person may have trouble lifting one arm or may lose coordination.

Quick check: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?

3. Trouble speaking or understanding speech

Signs may include:

Slurred speech
Difficulty finding words
Confusion
Trouble understanding others

Quick check: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech unclear?

4. Sudden vision changes

A stroke can cause:

Blurred vision
Double vision
Loss of vision in one or both eyes

5. Sudden dizziness or loss of balance

Watch for:

Difficulty walking
Loss of coordination
Feeling unusually unsteady

6. Sudden severe headache

A sudden, intense headache—especially one that is different from previous headaches—may be a warning sign, particularly if it occurs with other symptoms.