What Are the Clinical Signs of a Stroke?

A stroke is a medical emergency, the third-leading cause of death in the United States and the number one cause of adult disability. The National Stroke Association states that "80 percent of strokes are preventable." The common cause of a stroke is blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain.

Identification

• The clinical signs of a stroke are sudden onset of numbness and weakness, usually on one side of the body, including the face, arms and legs; confusion; the inability to speak; the inability to walk; a sudden onset of difficulty seeing; and a severe headache.

Warning

• Call 911 immediately to seek medical attention for any of the clinical warning signs of a stroke. It could save a life, either yours or someone else's. Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a mini-stroke that also needs immediate attention.

Time Frame

• Time is of the essence. To reduce damage to the brain and to increase the chances of recovery, you must seek immediate treatment for a stroke.

Theories/Speculation

• Studies show that you are at high risk for a stroke if you smoke, have high blood pressure, have high cholesterol, have uncontrolled diabetes, are overweight, or have heart disease or carotid artery disease.

Prevention/Solution

• You can prevent a stroke by changing your lifestyle. Start exercising, eat a healthy low-salt, low-fat diet, quit smoking, use moderation with alcohol and control your blood sugar levels.