Stroke Signs and Symptoms

Stroke symptoms are usually quite sudden and can include:

• weakness or numbness down one side of the body- ranging in severity from weakness in the hand to complete paralysis of one side of the body;
• weakness and drooping of the face;
• dizziness;
• sudden blurred, double or decreased vision:
• problems with speech;
• problems in understanding what others are saying;
• problems with balance and coordination;
• difficulty swallowing;
• severe headache which may be accompanied by a stiff neck, facial pain, pain between the eyes, vomiting or altered consciousness;
• loss of consciousness;
• confusion.

The symptoms for a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) are the same but they usually clear up much quicker- usually between a few minutes and 24 hours.

The Stroke Association has devised the face-arm-speech-test (FAST) to help people recognise the symptoms of a stroke or TIA in other people. The test asks the following questions:

• Can the person smile or has their mouth and eye drooped?
• Can the person raise both arms?
• Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?

If the person fails any of these tests and the symptoms persist for longer that 30 minutes then they may be having a full stroke- you will need to call an ambulance.

If a person has failed any of the tests, but severe symptoms clear up quickly they have probably had a TIA. They will need to see their GP as soon as possible.

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