Stroke Symptoms & Risk Factors
When it comes to stroke, seconds count. The faster you or your loved one gets treatment, the less likely you are to experience serious, long-term effects. That’s why it’s important to know the warning signs of stroke and call for help quickly.
Call 9-1-1 right away if you or a loved experiences sudden:
- Numbness, weakness, tingling or inability to move an arm, a leg or one side of the face
- Vision changes
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Confusion or trouble understanding simple statements
- Problems walking or balancing
- Severe headache
Seek medical attention immediately—even if your symptoms go away quickly. They can reoccur or they may be signs of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke.
Learn about the top-quality emergency services at Cone Health.
Every Second Counts: Stroke Awareness
Stroke Risk Factors
Reduce your risk of stroke by working with your health care provider to improve your health. Top risk factors for stroke include:
Your stroke risk also is affected by factors you can’t control. Your risk for stroke increases if you:
- Are 55 or older
- Are African American, Hispanic or Asian-Pacific American
- Have a personal or family history of stroke or TIA
- Have certain health conditions, such as fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) a patent foramen ovale (PFO)
Because risk for stroke doubles each year after age 55 and, on average, women live longer than men, stroke affects more women than men.
