If you’re suffering from a stroke, then it’s important to seek medical care immediately. However, stroke symptoms aren’t always as obvious as you might think. Most of us know to look out for facial drooping, speech problems, or numbness in one side of the body. In addition to these classic warning signs, it’s also important to know about more atypical stroke symptoms, too. Here are 5 things you might not realize are stroke symptoms.
1- Headaches
Headaches can be caused by a variety of issues. However, sudden, severe headaches might also be a sign of a hemorrhagic stroke. They are often described as “thunderclap headaches” because of their quick, extreme jolt of pain. If you experience sudden head pain, then seek help immediately.
2- Dizziness/ Vertigo
Dizziness and vertigo are also atypical stroke symptoms. Strokes often affect a person’s sense of balance. This can present as feeling dizzy, losing balance, or struggling with coordination. Seek medical help if you notice sudden changes to your sense of balance that don’t have a clear cause.
3- Changes in Consciousness or Perception
After suffering a stroke, some people have changes in consciousness or perception. People might lose consciousness altogether, or become confused or disoriented. Language and sensory changes might also occur. Like other stroke symptoms, these changes tend to come on quickly, so seek help ASAP if you notice them.
4- Sudden Nausea/Vomiting
Sudden nausea or vomiting can be a sign of a neurological problem, such as a stroke. However, since these don’t seem like neurological symptoms, they are often ignored by patients. Talk to a professional if you notice sudden nausea or vomiting.
5- Facial Weakness
Facial dropping is one of the most well-known stroke symptoms. However, general facial weakness can also be a warning sign. If you notice any changes to the look or feel of your face, then get medical attention.
Get Help When You Need It
Strokes require emergency medical care. Whether you present with classic or atypical stroke symptoms, Emergency Hospital Systems can help you. We offer comprehensive emergency room care to those in the Houston area. Click here to find an EHS location near you.