Symptoms of stroke can vary depending on which type of stroke is present. For instance, the symptoms of a thrombotic stroke tend to develop gradually, whereas the symptoms of an embolic stroke may appear suddenly. Patients experiencing either of these types of ischemic stroke may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Sudden weakness or numbness of one or more limbs, particularly on one side of the body (the opposite side from where the stroke has occurred)
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Drooling caused by weakness on one side of the face
• Confusion
• Loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or loss of coordination/balance
• Severe  headache (resembling a migraine)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Seizure
• Hearing problems, particularly in one ear

Other possible signs of stroke that are more common in women include chest pain, facial pain, shortness of breath and hiccups.

Sometimes, symptoms of ischemic stroke are only temporary. This is called a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or “mini-stroke.” A mini-stroke occurs when the flow of blood to the brain is briefly interrupted.

Mini-strokes were originally considered harmless. However, recent research indicates they may result in long-term brain damage. Additionally, the National Stroke Association estimates that 40 percent of individuals who have had a mini-stroke will probably experience a major stroke at some point in their lives.

Much like embolic strokes, cerebral hemorrhagic strokes tend to occur suddenly. Individuals experiencing this type of stroke, which typically worsens over time, may experience the following symptoms:

• Confusion
• Severe headache
• Nausea or vomiting

Subarachnoid hemorrhagic strokes typically produce symptoms similar to cerebral hemorrhagic strokes, as well as:

• Pain or stiffness of the neck
• Pain upon staring at or into a light

Another type of stroke, called a silent stroke, causes brain damage but does not produce any obvious symptoms. Having diabetes and high blood pressure dramatically raises an individual’s risk of experiencing a silent stroke, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). Silent stroke also affects about one-third of elderly individuals. Studies have shown that experiencing a silent stroke doubles an individual’s risk of developing dementia.

Strokes that continue to progress can result in coma or death. Individuals exhibiting symptoms of a stroke or mini-stroke should seek immediate medical treatment. It is important to note that individuals exhibiting stroke symptoms should not take aspirin. Aspirin can aggravate a stroke.

Individuals presenting symptoms of a stroke should not attempt to drive themselves to the hospital. If no driver is available, emergency treatment should be requested by calling for emergency medical services (phoning 911 in the United States and some other countries).

Many people ignore symptoms of a stroke, but early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery.