Stroke is a sudden, serious medical emergency, but the body often sends subtle warning signals in the weeks before a stroke occurs. Recognizing these early symptoms can save lives, as prompt medical intervention can reduce the severity of the stroke and prevent permanent damage. It is crucial to understand the symptoms of a stroke a month before it occurs in order to take the necessary steps for your health. Your body can give you some common warning signs a month before a stroke.

Abrupt numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg.

Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body is an early sign of an impending stroke. It can be felt in the face, arm, or leg and is usually more noticeable on one side. These symptoms can come on suddenly during a stroke, but some people experience numbness or weakness before the event, which sometimes lasts for a few minutes or hours and then goes away. If these attacks occur frequently, it is important to see a doctor to assess your risk.

Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
Having trouble speaking clearly or understanding others can be an important warning sign that your body is at risk of stroke. This difficulty may manifest as slurred speech, difficulty finding words, or an inability to understand simple sentences. Some people experience these symptoms intermittently in the weeks before a stroke, which can be a sign of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), often referred to as a “mini-stroke.” These transient ischemic attacks can be a precursor to a full-blown stroke and require medical attention.

Vision problems in one or both eyes
Another symptom that precedes a stroke is a sudden change in vision, including blurred vision or partial loss of vision in one or both eyes. If you have trouble seeing clearly, especially if it occurs in one eye or intermittently over time, this could indicate that blood flow to the area of ​​the brain responsible for vision is impaired. You may also experience double vision or a “blind spot” in your field of vision. Any significant changes in vision should be taken seriously, especially if they occur with other symptoms of a possible stroke.

Frequent headaches or sudden severe headaches
Headaches are common and often harmless, but severe headaches that come on suddenly and without warning can be a potential warning sign of a stroke. If you have frequent or unusually severe headaches, it could indicate a change in blood flow or pressure in the brain. These headaches may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting, which can also signal an impending stroke. If you have a history of headaches and suddenly experience a more severe headache or one that is different from your usual headaches, see your healthcare provider immediately.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or loss of balance
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or loss of balance can be a sign of a stroke. Sudden or unexplained dizziness that interferes with your ability to stand or walk should not be ignored. You may feel unsteady or have difficulty coordinating your movements. If you experience these symptoms, especially along with other symptoms such as numbness or weakness, it could be a sign of a transient ischemic attack or a warning sign before a stroke. A tendency to lose balance can indicate a disruption in the brain’s ability to coordinate body movements, which can be a precursor to a stroke.

Extreme fatigue and weakness
Sudden, unexplained fatigue can also be an early sign of an impending stroke. While fatigue is common in everyday life, persistent fatigue and tiredness, even after a full night’s sleep, can indicate a major problem with blood flow to the brain. If you are constantly feeling weak or find it difficult to perform normal tasks or activities, this may be due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients in your body, which could indicate an impending stroke.

Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can occur before a stroke. If you have trouble swallowing food or liquids, or cough or choke while eating or drinking, this could be a sign of a nerve problem caused by reduced blood flow. Difficulty swallowing can be an early sign of an impending stroke, as the brain’s ability to control the muscles involved in swallowing may be impaired.

Mood swings or sudden behavioral changes
Although emotional or behavioral changes are not related to a stroke, they can actually be early signs of brain dysfunction. You may experience sudden mood swings, irritability, or even depression. In some cases, people experience personality changes, such as being more withdrawn than usual or becoming less sociable. If these emotional changes are accompanied by other neurological symptoms, such as numbness or difficulty speaking, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.