5 warning signs of a stroke

TORONTO – Stroke is a medical emergency. Recognizing and responding immediately to the signs of stroke by calling 911 or your local emergency number can significantly improve survival and recovery, says the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Here are the five warning signs of stroke:

—Weakness: sudden loss of strength or sudden weakness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary

—Trouble speaking: sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary

—Vision problems: Sudden loss of vision, blurred or double vision, even if temporary

—Sudden severe and unusual headache

—Dizziness: Sudden loss of balance, feeling as if the room if spinning, especially with any of the above signs

Source: Heart and Stroke Foundation: http://www.heartandstroke.com/site/c.ikIQLcMWJtE/b.3483937/k.ED98/Stroke__Stroke_Warning_Signs.htm