5. Slurred Speech or Confusion
Trouble finding words, slurring, or saying things that don’t make sense.
Loved ones may notice you sound “off”—even if you feel fine.
6. Facial Drooping (Check the Smile Test)
One side of the face droops when smiling.
May be subtle—try raising both eyebrows or showing teeth in a mirror.
7. Memory Lapses or Mental Fog
Forgetting recent conversations, getting lost in familiar places, or sudden confusion.
Often mistaken for stress or aging—but could be reduced blood flow to the brain.
8. Unusual Fatigue (Especially in Women)
Overwhelming tiredness not relieved by rest.
Studies show women often report extreme fatigue days before a stroke.
9. Hiccups + Nausea (Yes, Really!)
Persistent hiccups combined with nausea or chest pain can signal a brainstem stroke—rare but dangerous.
10. Personality or Mood Changes
Sudden irritability, apathy, or emotional outbursts with no trigger.
May reflect changes in frontal lobe function.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Don’t wait. Don’t “see if it passes.”
Call 911 immediately—even if symptoms disappear.
Remember FAST—but also BE-FAST:
B = Balance loss
E = Eyes (vision changes)
F = Face drooping
A = Arm weakness
S = Speech difficulty
T = Time to call 911
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