Top 5 Signs of a Stroke You Should Never Ignore
November 25, 2025
When it comes to a stroke, every minute matters. A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen. The longer it takes to get medical help, the higher the risk of lasting damage, so recognizing the warning signs early can truly save a life.
Here are five key signs of a stroke to watch for:
Sudden numbness or weakness: Especially on one side of the body, like the face, arm, or leg. If someone’s smile looks uneven or they can’t lift one arm, call for help immediately.
Trouble speaking or understanding: Slurred speech, confusion, or difficulty finding words are all red flags.
Vision problems: Sudden blurred or double vision, or loss of sight in one or both eyes, may signal a stroke.
Loss of balance or coordination: Feeling dizzy, unsteady, or suddenly unable to walk normally could mean the brain isn’t getting enough blood flow.
Severe headache: A sudden, intense headache that feels different from usual — especially when it hits “out of nowhere” — can be a warning sign, even without other symptoms.
An easy way to remember these symptoms is the acronym BE FAST: Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech — and Time to call 911.
After emergency treatment, a neurosurgeon may play a key role in recovery and care. Neurosurgeons can perform procedures to remove blood clots, repair damaged blood vessels, or relieve pressure in the brain caused by swelling or bleeding. In some cases, they use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to restore blood flow and prevent future strokes. If you or someone near you shows signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately — getting help fast can save a life.
