“What are the signs of a stroke, and when should I call 911?”

While several different diagnoses can be associated with sudden onset of weakness or numbness on one side of you face or your body, these symptoms are extremely concerning for a possible stroke. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should call 911 immediately.

If you're experiencing sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body, it's important to be aware of other possible signs of a stroke. Here are the key symptoms to watch for:

Sudden numbness or weakness: Often affects the face, arm, or leg, typically on one side of the body.
Confusion or trouble speaking: Difficulty understanding speech or speaking clearly, or trouble forming words.
Vision problems: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
Difficulty walking: Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
Severe headache: A sudden, intense headache with no known cause.
If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Time is critical when it comes to strokes, and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. The sooner you get medical attention, the more likely it is to reduce brain damage and increase the chances of recovery.