Warning signs of an impending stroke you should not ignore!

A stroke, also known as a brain attack, is a life threatening medical emergency, that occurs when blood flow to the brain is suddenly disrupted, either by blockage or bleeding. There are two types of stroke, including Ischemic stroke, that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked by a clot or plaque build up. The other one, called Hemorrhagic stroke, occurs when a blood vessel bursts or bleeds causing pressure on brain tissue. Regardless of the kind, a stroke can be fatal, if not treated on time, and there are some warning signs you should notice before a stroke comes on (if you do, rush to the hospital immediately...)

Most of us get headaches at some point - they could be driven by stress, extreme weather, hunger, dehydration, strong odours, or migraines. However, if you suddenly start having a headache that does not feel 'right', it could be a warning sign. Of course, a headache like this could be one off as well, but if it lasts through days, and is constant, then it could be a warning sign, especially if it does not subside with your usual remedies/medications.

Have you been feeling a little trippy lately, falling off balance often? While we all often lose our balance, if it has been happening too often, then it could be a sign of an impending stroke. This can be accompanied by sudden dizziness, which forces you to sit down, hand-eye coordination issues (such as while driving, typing, cooking etc) and a general feeling of fainting, multiple times a day.

Have you woken up suddenly to feel that your eyes are hazy, and do not get better after washing your face too? This could be a warning sign that an impending stroke is close by. Eye vision issues are one of the most common symptoms of a stroke, so if you feel any sudden change or loss in vision, do not wait, and rush to a doctor immediately.

If you have suddenly been feeling weak and or numb, especially on one side of the body, then it could be a stroke warning sign. This can also be accompanied by tingling or a feeling of 'pins and needles' all throughout your body, or specifically in one area. This apart, if you have suddenly become confused, lack focus and concentration, or are forgetful, then it could be a warning sign that demands urgent attention.

You are more likely to get a stroke if you are overweight or have high blood pressure (with or without heart disease). This apart, those who suffer from diabetes too, are more prone to suffer a stroke than those who do not. High cholesterol also adds to chances of having a stroke, especially in case of high LDL, also known as 'bad cholesterol'. Finally, men are more likely to get a stroke than women, and while a stroke can occur at any age, it is more common in individuals who are over 50 years of age.