Which symptoms might indicate a stroke?

The presence of sudden numbness and confusion is a hallmark symptom of a stroke, aligning with the acronym FAST, which stands for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services. Sudden numbness, particularly if it occurs on one side of the body (e.g., face, arm, or leg), can indicate that part of the brain is not receiving adequate blood flow, which can lead to confusion or difficulty in understanding speech. These symptoms suggest a potential disruption in brain function and demand immediate medical attention.

In contrast, other symptoms listed do not specifically indicate a stroke. Sudden headache and dizziness can occur for various reasons but are not specific to stroke. Severe fatigue and fainting may indicate other medical conditions or problems but are not characteristic of a stroke. Persistent nausea and vomiting can occur due to many different causes, including gastrointestinal issues, and are not typical stroke symptoms. Thus, sudden numbness and confusion stand out as critical warning signs pointing toward a stroke emergency.