Sudden occurrence of…

• Numbness of the face, arms or legs especially on one side of the body
• Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or loss of balance and coordination
• Severe headache with no known cause.

Stroke is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 or your emergency medical services immediately. If you notice one or more of these signs, don't wait! Get to a hospital right away!

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms seek medical emergency services as quickly as possible. Early treatment is essential to minimizing damage to your brain as well as other possible complications.

A stroke is caused by the disruption of blood to the brain, usually by a clot in an artery or a ruptured blood vessel causing hemorrhage. Within minutes, lack of oxygen and nutrients to the brain causes cells to begin the dying process. Because the brain is so complex and controls most bodily functions, the effects of a stroke can vary widely depending on which part of the brain was nourished by the clogged or ruptured artery. The severity of brain injury and subsequent symptoms depend upon the extent of cell damage and the area of the brain involved.

Stroke symptoms can be grouped into five categories:
• sensory disturbances (which includes pain)
• paralysis and mobility difficulties
• problems with speech
• thought and memory impairment
• emotional disturbances
Once again, stroke is a medical emergency and early treatment is essential to minimizing damage to your brain as well as other possible complications.

Take action:
• Don't ignore signs of stroke, even if they go away! Not all symptoms occur at the same time.
• Check the time. When did you first notice the symptoms? Emergency personnel will ask you this important question later.
• Don’t delay! Immediately call 9-1-1 or the emergency medical service (EMS) number so an ambulance (ideally with advanced life support) can quickly be sent for you.
• If you're with someone who may be having stroke symptoms, immediately call 9-1-1. Denial is common and the person may protest. Don't take "no" for an answer. Insist on taking prompt action.