Signs of a Stroke You Need to Recognize

Common Warning Signs & Symptoms of a stroke: (many of which are specific to women)

A stroke occurs when blood supply is suddenly cut off from the brain. Think of it as a brain attack; it can happen at any time and is considered a medical emergency because the brain cells are being deprived of oxygen.

While heart.org states that someone dies of a stroke every 3.70 minutes (about 389.4 stroke deaths each day), stroke.org points out that strokes kill more women than men each year. In fact, one in five women will have a stroke. Some of the reasons for the increased risks are likely:

Shifting estrogen levels

Pregnancy

Preeclampsia

Birth control pills

Hormone replacement therapy

Frequent migraines 

Atrial fibrillation

Having a thick waist, particularly if post-menopausal 

With statistics like that, it’s important that we know what a stroke is and be able to act quickly when we recognize the warning signs. Immediate help is necessary to reduce the effects and avoid long-term complications. 

Beyond these symptoms, additional risk factors — for women and men — include being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, heavy or binge drinking, and using  illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. Medical risk factors include diabetes, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease, among others. 

Slurred speech & trouble seeing
A telltale sign that someone is having a stroke is when they slur their speech, cannot speak a simple sentence, and have difficulty seeing out of one or both eyes.

Severe headaches
Headaches are a common condition, but if one suddenly pops up without warning and is debilitating, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Numbness or weakness
What most people experience is paralysis on one side of the body, on the face, or on an arm or leg. Some people experience pain or the sensation of pins and needles.

Shortness of breath & disorientation
Many women struggle to breathe, may hallucinate, show signs of confusion, or disorientation. Some may even faint. 

Dizziness, nausea, & vomiting
These symptoms may be minor or appear to masquerade as vertigo, but they should not be ignored. Especially true if you are experiencing additional symptoms. 

Your friends at Murray Media Group want to remind you the best way to maintain overall health is to live a healthier lifestyle. Also, be aware of what your body is trying to tell you and always consult with your physician.