Sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body.

Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech.

Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes.

Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.

Severe headache with no known cause (in some cases).

Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery leading to the brain, causing a lack of blood flow.

Hemorrhagic Stroke: Happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding inside or around the brain.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often referred to as a mini-stroke, this is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain that typically resolves itself but can be a warning sign of a future stroke.

CT Scan or MRI: To identify the presence of bleeding or blockage in the brain.

Blood Tests: To check for underlying conditions like high cholesterol, blood sugar, or clotting disorders.

Cerebral Angiography: A special X-ray test that looks at blood vessels in the brain.

Neurological Exam: A doctor will assess your ability to speak, move, and respond to stimuli to determine the extent of brain damage.

Immediate Treatment: For ischemic strokes, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can be used to dissolve the clot. Hemorrhagic strokes may require surgery to stop the bleeding and relieve pressure.

Long-Term Treatment: Includes physical, speech, and occupational therapy to regain lost function. Medications such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) or antihypertensive drugs may be prescribed.

Life Expectancy: This varies depending on the severity of the stroke, the speed of treatment, and any ongoing rehabilitation. Many people recover well, while others may face long-term disability or complications. Stroke survivors may have a slightly reduced life expectancy due to the increased risk of another stroke or related complications.