FAST FACTS: Signs of a Stroke

Time is critical in a stroke, so getting someone to medical assistance is urgent. Call 911 if you see these signs. The longer you wait for treatment, the more likely damage to the brain will be permanent.

The most common signs of a stroke are a sudden onset of one or more of the following:

• Weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, especially if only on one side of the body.
• Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Vision problems, including dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• Dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Inability to move or walk normally
• Severe headache with no other known cause

Stroke is caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain. Many of the risk factors for stroke don’t have symptoms, such as high blood pressure. Though it is rare, children can have strokes. Children have similar symptoms as adults, though they are more likely to also have seizure, altered mental status or headache too.