Strokesoccur when the blood supply to any region of the brain is interrupted or reduced.
They can causebrain damagein the form of long-lasting physical handicaps and difficulty with communication and thinking.
However, there are other conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those of a stroke.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
This article explains common and rare signs of a stroke and explains conditions that may look like a stroke.
The muscles may become limp and feel heavy.
When lifting both arms at the same time, the affected arm may drift downward.
Speech Difficulty
Someone experiencing a stroke may suddenly have trouble speaking.
Their speech may be slurred or they may have difficulty repeating a simple sentence.
The sooner a stroke can be diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.
Other Stroke Symptoms
Stroke symptoms can vary from person to person.
The following are other symptoms to look out for.
This is because of damage to the brain’s sensory regions.
Confusion
Confusion is a common side effect of stroke.
A stroke can affect memory, concentration, and other cognitive abilities.
Dizziness
Some types of stroke can cause dizziness orvertigo, a sensation of spinning.
Dizziness symptoms may vary in severity and duration.
Vision Problems
Approximately two thirds of people experience vision problems after stroke.
Other symptoms like dizziness or vertigo may also affect balance.
Headache
A sudden and severe headache with no known cause may be other sign of stroke.
Stroke symptoms often occur suddenly, though it is possible for them to develop over hours or even days.
Medical Conditions That Look Like a Stroke
Seizures
Seizures are episodes of abnormal brain activity.
Migraine Headaches
Migraine headachesare painful, often debilitating headaches that affect a large percentage of the population.
Most migraine headaches are characterized by pain in the head, neck, and shoulders.
These similarities can make it difficult to distinguish migraine from a stroke.
Because of this, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience sudden or persistent dizziness.
This condition usually just affects one side of the face.
The symptoms may come and go.
Other symptoms of neuropathy may include pain and numbness.
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