If you experience a sudden occurrence of these symptoms without any other explanation, seek immediate medical care — especially if you fall into a high-risk category for stroke. This includes people with: - High blood pressure
- Atrial fibrillation
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Personal or family history of stroke
Other high-risk groups include adults 55 or older, African Americans, and women taking estrogen-containing birth control pills or hormone therapy.
Overall, men are more likely than women to have a stroke, but women are more likely to show more subtle signs and symptoms. Of course, it’s possible that you’re not having a stroke and it’s a false alarm. But it’s best to play it safe and get an immediate evaluation. If it is a stroke, the longer it takes to receive care and treatment, the higher the risk of disability or death — every minute counts in stemming irreversible brain injury. | 
