Strokes can happen suddenly, but there are often early warning signs. Recognizing these signs early—and acting fast—can save your life or the life of someone you love.

Can There Be Warning Signs One Month Before a Stroke?

While it's not always possible to predict a stroke weeks in advance, a transient ischemic attack (TIA)—often called a mini-stroke—can be an important early warning sign.

About 20% of people who experience a TIA will go on to have a full stroke within 90 days. Symptoms of TIA are the same as a stroke and might include:

  • Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech
  • Loss of balance or coordination
  • Muscle weakness
  • Changes in alertness or senses

Other Early Signs of Stroke

Additional sudden symptoms to watch for include:

  • Difficulty walking
  • Dizziness or loss of coordination
  • Severe headache without a known cause
  • Vision problems in one or both eyes
  • Numbness or weakness in the legs, arms, or face—especially on one side of the body

Act F.A.S.T.

The acronym F.A.S.T. can help you remember the most common stroke symptoms and how to respond:

  • Face: Check for facial drooping or numbness.
  • Arm: See if one arm is weak or numb.
  • Speech: Listen for slurred or strange speech.
  • Time: Call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms appear.

How To Prepare

Strokes can happen to anyone, anytime. Preparation tips include:

  • Know your nearest stroke-ready hospital with 24-hour emergency care.
  • Keep a list of your medications, allergies, and any important medical information.
  • Be aware of your stroke risk factors, such as:
    • Age (risk doubles every 10 years after age 55)
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Diabetes
    • Family history of stroke
    • Heart disease
    • Smoking
    • Excessive alcohol use
    • Obesity
    • Lack of physical activity
    • Sickle cell disease

What To Do if You Think You're Having a Stroke

If you or someone else shows signs of a stroke:

  • Call 911 immediately. Don’t attempt to drive yourself or have someone drive you. Emergency medical personnel can start treatment in the ambulance.
  • Tell the 911 operator you suspect a stroke.
  • Advocate for yourself at the hospital. If your symptoms are dismissed or misdiagnosed as something like a migraine or inner ear infection, ask:
    • "Why do you think it’s not a stroke?"
    • If you are not satisfied with the answer, ask for a second opinion.

Strokes—especially those affecting the back part of the brain (posterior strokes)—can be misdiagnosed, so persistence can be critical.

A Quick Review

Early warning signs of stroke include sudden weakness, confusion, vision problems, and difficulty walking. A TIA may also serve as a warning of a possible stroke within the next few months.

The key to minimizing the damage caused by a stroke is acting FAST. Know your risk factors, recognize symptoms, and seek emergency care immediately. Having a plan in place can make all the difference.