A Stroke? How Can You Tell?

By Bryon Zirker

My father in-law experienced several strokes which have
left him permanently disabled on one side with no hope of
rehabilitation.

His disability is permanent and can be attributed to the fact
that the first couple of strokes (which caused most of the
damage) were not attended to immediately and to much time
had elapsed before getting him to the emergency room and
medical care.

The symptoms of a stroke may be obvious such as: Unable to
move arms or legs. The big question is would you be able to
recognize less severe, but no less dangerous, stroke symptoms?
Someday in the future, you may have to. Here are the most
common warning signs:

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially
on one side of the body.

Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.

If When a stroke were to occur, every second counts. The time lost
is potential brain tissue lost.

So if you (or someone you know) experiences any of these
symptoms, call 911 immediately. It will mean the difference
between a full recovery and permanent disability, or even death.