Can You Recognize the Warning Signs of a Stroke?

Last updated 1 year ago

A stroke is a serious brain injury that occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. Without the oxygen and nutrients from blood, brain tissue dies quickly, resulting in a sudden loss of function. The interruption of blood flow can be due to an obstruction (ischemic stroke) or from bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Those that experience possible stroke symptoms should consider calling 911 and seeking emergency medical care immediately to reduce the damage done to the brain tissue.

The symptoms of a stroke depend on the area of the brain that is damaged, but almost always set on suddenly and without warning. The most common symptoms of a stroke include, but are not limited to:

A sudden, severe headache that can be described as ‘the worst headache of your life’
A change in alertness, which may include feeling sleepy or losing consciousness
Sensory changes, such as loss of hearing, vision, taste, or touch (including pressure and temperature perception)
Difficulty speaking or understanding what is spoken to you
Confusion or sudden loss of memory
Difficulty swallowing
Loss of coordination or balance
Muscle weakness in the face, arm, or leg, usually on one side of the body

Every 45 seconds, someone in America suffers from a stroke. These ‘brain attacks’ are the third leading killer and the number one cause of adult disability in the United States. At Regional Medical Center of San Jose, our Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality treatment and rehabilitation to stroke patients in our community. The center also prioritizes education and an increased awareness of stroke symptoms in both the healthcare profession and in our community. You can learn more about our program and stroke prevention by visiting our website or by contacting us at (888) 762-8881.