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Diagnosis of a Stroke

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to an area of your brain is suddenly cut off, causing neurological damage or even death. Strokes are the second leading cause of death worldwide and the No. 1 cause of disability in United States adults, so it is important for you to know a few of the signs that indicate the likely diagnosis of a stroke.

  1. Vision

    • A stroke can cause you to experience sudden blurriness or even blindness in one or both eyes. If this happens to you, have someone take you into a medical facility (not an optometrist) for an official diagnosis; do not attempt to drive yourself.

      Remember, stroke symptoms are sudden, so a gradual weakening of your eyes does not demand the immediate medical attention that a stroke would.

    Drooping

    • After suffering a stroke, you may lose control of certain facial muscles, generally on only one side of your face. If you think you may have had a stroke, look in the mirror or have someone observe you while you attempt to smile.

      If one side of your face significantly droops or otherwise appears affected, you should seek medical attention for an official diagnosis immediately. Make sure to have a mirror or observer, because you may not be able to feel the drooping.

    Weakness

    • Another area that you may experience muscle weakness or dysfunction following a stroke is your limbs. Look in a mirror or have someone observe you while you attempt to raise both arms. If one arm sags or appears resistant to movement, seek an official diagnosis right away.

    Coordination

    • Strokes can cause neurological damage that will make you feel constantly dizzy, easily lose your balance and have trouble walking. If any of these symptoms develop suddenly, have someone take you for an emergency diagnosis.

    Speech

    • When you have a stroke, you may suddenly find yourself unable to speak coherently, feel confused or have trouble understanding what other people are saying to you. You may not realize that you're slurring your words or speaking oddly, so if someone else expresses concern, take it seriously and get a proper medical diagnosis.

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