Early signs of stroke: How your body warns you

Stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), remains one of the leading causes of mortality and long-term neurological disability worldwide. It is generally characterised by the sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and results in irreversible brain damage if not treated promptly. Early recognition of stroke symptoms is paramount, as timely medical intervention can drastically reduce complications and improve recovery outcomes. The widely known F.A.S.T. acronym (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to act) aids in identifying common signs, but subtler symptoms like numbness, dizziness, and vision changes may also serve as critical early warnings. This paper explores the various types of strokes—ischemic, hemorrhagic, and transient ischemic attacks (TIA)—and discusses their underlying causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies. Emphasis is placed on the importance of managing risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and smoking, alongside lifestyle modifications for stroke prevention. This paper concludes with recommendations emphasising public awareness and encouraging immediate action upon recognising symptoms, underscoring the potential to reduce the global burden of strokes and improve patient outcomes.