How do I know if I am having a stroke? 3 unmissable symptoms

Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, striking suddenly and often without warning. About 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke every year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Of this, 5 million die, and 5 million are left permanently disabled. Recognizing the signs early can mean the difference between life and death or severe disability. Before diving into the signs, let’s understand what it is.

A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or there is sudden bleeding in the brain. There are two types of strokes: Ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Most of the strokes are ischemic strokes. Ischemic stroke is a stroke that occurs because blood flow to the brain is blocked. When it's blocked, the brain won’t get oxygen and nutrients from the blood. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die within minutes.
A hemorrhagic stroke, on the other hand, happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures (breaks open). This leak puts too much pressure on brain cells and damages them.
A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.
Here are three unmissable symptoms of stroke to watch for.

The drooping of the face is the earliest and most visible sign of a stroke. This typically occurs on one side of the face. There are also chances that the person may not even realize the change, but it becomes obvious to others. A quick test is to ask the person to smile. If one side of the face droops or appears uneven, this could be a major warning sign. Facial drooping happens because a stroke often affects the nerves that control facial muscles.

One of the hallmark signs of a stroke is sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body. If you feel numbness or weakness in one side of your body, it could be a symptom of a stroke. The American Stroke Association emphasizes that this symptom often appears abruptly and is different from gradual muscle fatigue or injury. Try to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Another alarming and most recognizable symptom of stroke is speech problems. A stroke can impair the brain’s ability to process language, leading to sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or trouble understanding others. The person may slur their words, speak incoherently, or struggle to find the right words.
Remember, stroke is an emergency. Every minute counts. So, if you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately.