That headline is misleading. There is no reliable list of warning signs that appear a month before every stroke. Many strokes happen suddenly with no advance warning.
However, some people do experience earlier symptoms, often due to a TIA (transient ischemic attack)—sometimes called a “mini-stroke.” A TIA can happen days or weeks before a major stroke and is a medical emergency.
Here’s what’s important to know—clearly and safely:
Possible Early Warning Signs (Often TIA-Related)
These symptoms may come and go, last minutes to hours, and should never be ignored:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the face, arm, or leg
- Trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
- Dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination
- Sudden confusion
- Severe headache with no known cause
- Facial drooping (one side doesn’t move normally)
- Sudden fatigue or weakness without explanation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Brief episodes of these symptoms that resolve
Even if symptoms disappear, damage and risk remain.
The FAST Rule (Emergency Signs)
If any of these happen, call emergency services immediately:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to get help now
Key Truths to Remember
- ❌ A stroke does not always give warnings a month ahead
- ✅ TIAs are serious and predict higher stroke risk
- ⏱️ Fast treatment saves brain function
- 🩺 Early care can prevent a major stroke
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