What Does Your Heart Rate Say About Your Health?
What are symptoms of a silent stroke?
Every year, about 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke, and about 140,000 of those men and women die as a result, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While most strokes – especially fatal ones – are major, causing obvious symptoms, many more are very small – so small, their symptoms can pass unnoticed and undiagnosed. These strokes are often referred to as “silent strokes” or “mini-strokes,” and while their initial impact may be relatively minor, over time repeated injury to the brain can result in significant cognitive decline and even death.
Learning to recognize common stroke symptoms is one of the best ways to ensure you get the care you need right away. Unfortunately, while heart disease and heart attack symptoms like chest pain and arm pain are commonly known, many people aren’t familiar with the most common symptoms of strokes.
Stroke Symptoms
The most common symptoms of stroke include:
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Dizziness
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Headaches
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Memory problems or other cognitive (thinking) problems
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Weakness in a limb (including loss of grip strength)
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Blurry vision
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Tremors
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Balance problems
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Problems with coordinated movements
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Extreme fatigue
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Problems with speech
Facial drooping is another common stroke symptom, but it’s not typically associated with a silent stroke, where symptoms are more subtle and difficult to detect.
Many people who have silent strokes will go on to have a major stroke. Because the symptoms associated with a silent stroke can be so difficult to detect, it’s important to see your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms – even if they seem minor. Being evaluated as early as possible and having regular cardiac and vascular screenings can help your doctor identify risk factors so you can take preventive action right away.
Stroke and Heart Disease
If you have heart disease, chances are you’re already at an increased risk for having a stroke – major or “mini.” That’s because both cardiac problems and stroke are usually caused by problems with the blood vessels. In fact, one of the most common causes of heart disease – atherosclerosis or “hardening” of the arteries – is also a common cause of strokes.
If you have heart disease, be sure to discuss stroke risks with your doctor, as well as steps you can take to reduce your risks for both diseases. And if you haven’t had a cardiac evaluation, now is the time to schedule one, especially if you’re 40 or older or if you have a family history of heart disease or stroke.
Get evaluated today.
As a leading provider of cardiovascular care for patients in and around the greater Phoenix region, Tri-City Cardiology offers the most advanced screening and testing options to help identify the signs of stroke and heart disease as early as possible. Plus, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men and women with heart disease and other cardiovascular and cerebrovascular issues, including minimally-invasive options for the fastest possible recovery. Play an active role in preventing heart disease and stroke. Call Tri-City Cardiology at 480-835-6100 or use our online form and request an appointment today.
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