What Does a Stroke Feel Like?

This content has been reviewed and approved by Amy Porter MSN, RN, SCRN

A stroke is a life-threatening event affecting the brain. Stroke can result in permanent disability and is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S.

There are two types of stroke. In an ischemic stroke, blood flow to part of the brain is reduced or stopped, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Very quickly, brain cells begin to die.

A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain. The blood puts pressure on brain tissue, damaging cells.

Both types of stroke are medical emergencies that can create lasting damage to the brain or be fatal. Consequently, it’s crucial to understand what a stroke feels like so you can get care right away for yourself or someone else experiencing it.

This article lists and describes the physical sensations associated with strokes.

Stroke Symptoms

Signs that you’re experiencing a stroke include the following:

• Headache. A sudden, severe headache can be a stroke symptom. The headache might be accompanied by dizziness or vomiting.
• Trouble speaking. A stroke can cause aphasia, which is difficulty speaking or the complete loss of speaking ability. You might also become confused and have trouble understanding what others are saying.
• Numbness, weakness or paralysis in your face, arm or leg. This symptom often affects only one side of the body. For example, you might have trouble lifting one of your arms, or one side of your mouth may droop.
• Vision problems. A stroke can cause blurred vision, vision loss or double vision in one or both eyes.
• Balance issues. You might have trouble with your balance or coordination, causing you to stumble or fall when trying to walk.

Remember BE FAST for Identifying Strokes

If you think you or someone else is having a stroke, the acronym BE FAST is a helpful way to remember the symptoms to look for while also emphasizing the need for immediate care:

• B (Balance)
• E (Eyes)
• F (Face)
• A (Arms)
• S (Speech)
• T (Time is of the essence)

Any Stroke Symptom Is Reason To Seek Immediate Care

If you experience any stroke symptoms, getting care as quickly as possible is crucial. You don’t need to have several or all of them. You should call 911 immediately.

The quicker medical personnel start treatment on someone who is having a stroke, the less damage the event will cause and the lower the risk of death.

Stroke Risk Factors

Several risk factors increase a person’s stroke risk, including:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Cardiovascular problems, including heart failure and heart defects
• Personal or family history of stroke
• Hormone therapy, such as estrogen
• Being 55 or older
• Being male
• Being African American or Hispanic

Talk With Your Doctor About Your Stroke Risk Factors

Some stroke risk factors are outside your control. However, you can address others to lower your chances of having a stroke.

Your Baptist Health doctor can discuss your stroke risk and recommend ways to lower it. They can also refer you to our neurology and stroke care team if you’ve experienced a stroke.

Our online provider directory is an excellent resource for finding a physician.

Next Steps and Helpful Resources

Learn More About Neurology and Stroke Care
Spot the Signs of a Stroke
What Is Heat Stroke?
What Is a Mini-Stroke?