Top 12 Stroke Symptoms (You Should Not Ignore)

Updated in February 2024
Dr. Ana Luiza Lima
Medical review: Dr. Ana Luiza Lima Cardiologist

Stroke symptoms, or symptoms of a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) can appear ver suddenly. They can present very differently depending on the part of the brain that is affected. Some stroke symptoms that may be noticed are an intense and sudden headache, weakness on one side of the body, loss of sensitivity, drowsiness, changes in vision and mental confusion.

If you suspect you are having a stroke, call an ambulance immediately so that treatment can be initiated promptly and complications can be prevented.

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Main symptoms

The most common stroke symptoms include:

  1. Intense headache that appears suddenly
  2. Weakness on one side of the body, which is noticeable in the arm or leg
  3. Asymmetrical face, with a crooked mouth and drooping eyebrow on one side
  4. Speech that is slurred, slow or with a very low and often imperceptible voice tone
  5. Loss of sensitivity in a part of the body, not identifying cold or heat, for example
  6. Difficulty remaining standing or sitting or walking, as the body falls to one side
  7. Vision changes, such as partial vision loss or blurred vision
  8. Difficulty lifting the arm or holding objects, as the arm hangs down
  9. Unusual and uncontrolled movements, such as tremors
  10. Drowsiness or even loss of consciousness
  11. Loss of memory and confusion, not being able to carry out simple orders, (such as opening your eyes) and personality changes like becoming aggressive and not knowing your name
  12. Nausea and vomiting.

Despite this, a stroke can also occur without causing any visible symptoms. They can be discovered in tests that are carried out for other diagnostic reasons. People who are most likely to have a stroke are those who have high blood pressure, are overweight or have diabetes. Therefore, it is important for these populations to have regular doctor visits to prevent a stroke.

Also recommended: Heart Attack Symptoms: 10 Signs You Shouldn't Ignore tuasaude.com/en/symptoms-of-heart-attack

What to do if you suspect a stroke

If you suspect you are having a stroke, call for help immediately. An ambulance should be called promptly and the victim should lie down on the floor on their side. If the victim stops breathing, perform CPR.

Consequences of a stroke

A stroke can cause many sequelae which may be temporary or very serious. The most common complication of a stroke is weakness, may prevent the patient from walking, dressing or eating independently.

Other consequences of a stroke include difficulty communicating or understanding orders, frequent choking, incontinence, loss of vision or even confused and aggressive behavior, which makes relationships with family and friends difficult.

It is very important to know that there are treatments that help reduce the consequences of a stroke. Physiotherapy sessions can help you regain movement. Speech therapy sessions help recover speech and improve communication. Occupational therapy sessions help to improve an individual’s quality of life and well-being.

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Medical review:

Dr. Ana Luiza Lima

Cardiologist

Studies completed at the Federal University of Pernambuco in 2008. Licensed to practice with the CRM/PE – #16886.

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