Signs and symptoms can vary according to which type of stroke is present. However, the National Institute of Health (NIH) lists several major general signs of strokes. All of these symptoms appear suddenly:

• Numbness or weakness of the face, arms or legs
  
  
• Confusion
  
  
• Trouble speaking or understanding others
  
  
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  
  
• Difficulty walking
  
  
• Dizziness
  
  
• Loss of balance and coordination
  
  
• Severe headache (without a known cause)
  
  
• Paralysis of part of the body

The onset of symptoms may also vary depending on the type of stroke. For example, the symptoms of an embolic stroke tend to hit suddenly, whereas the symptoms of a thrombotic stroke develop more gradually. A cerebral hemorrhagic stroke tends to produce symptoms that hit suddenly and then continue to worsen. Additional symptoms of stroke that may appear suddenly or gradually include seizures, a stiff neck and pain upon looking up or into a light.

Symptoms that last for a short period of time are usually an indication of a "mini-stroke" or transient ischemic attack (TIA). This is a medical emergency and anyone experiencing the symptoms of a stroke (regardless of the degree or duration) should seek immediate medical assistance.

If a stroke or TIA is suspected, patients should NOT take aspirin. Aspirin could make a stroke worse. If in doubt about whether the symptoms are an indication of a stroke, call a doctor or go to the emergency room. Patients should not attempt to drive themselves or walk to the emergency room. If there is no transport available, call 9-1-1.