Know the Symptoms

Up to one-half of all Americans cannot name a single stroke symptom. Many victims don't seek emergency care because they don't take their symptoms seriously.

Warning: Some people who have a stroke experience brain damage that makes it impossible for them to recognize symptoms. It's critical for family members, friends or coworkers to recognize the first signs of stroke.

· Sudden numbness, weakness and/or paralysis in the face, an armor a leg. The symptoms usually affect one side of the body.

· Difficulty in talking or understanding words...confusion.

· Sudden changes in vision, such as blur[1]ring or double vision.

· Dizziness or a loss of balance.

· Severe headache that occurs without warning, possibly accompanied by vomiting.