What symptom may indicate the onset of a stroke?

Weakness of an arm or leg is a key symptom that may indicate the onset of a stroke due to its connection with the neurological effects caused by a disruption in blood flow to the brain. When a stroke occurs, it can result in sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, particularly affecting the arm, leg, or face. This weakness is often one of the first noticeable signs and can prompt immediate medical attention.

Recognizing this symptom is critical because timely intervention can significantly affect patient outcomes and recovery. The brain tissue affected by the stroke is highly susceptible to damage, and the sooner medical help is sought, the better the chances of minimizing long-term disabilities.

Other symptoms associated with a stroke include sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, or sudden severe headache with no known cause. These symptoms collectively form the acronym FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call emergency services), which emphasizes the urgency of recognizing and responding to the onset of a stroke.