Stroke can affect anyone, but women may experience different symptoms compared to men. Some symptoms are less common and harder to detect, especially in women. Here are 10 lesser-known signs of a stroke in women.
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Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting, linked to elevated intracranial pressure, can be signs of a stroke, especially in women. -
Sudden Severe Headache
A sudden, severe headache, especially if different from usual headaches, could signal a stroke. Women with migraines may experience more intense pain. -
Shortness of Breath
Breathing difficulties can occur due to stroke-related issues in the brain affecting breathing capacity. -
Changes in Balance and Coordination
Loss of balance or coordination can resemble dizziness or fainting, but it’s important to note if it occurs without alcohol consumption. -
Mental Confusion or Disorientation
Sudden confusion or memory loss may be more common in women and could be mistaken for stress or fatigue. -
Changes in Vision
Blurry vision or changes in one eye can happen due to stroke, affecting the brain’s visual processing area. -
Neck or Jaw Pain
Pain in the neck or jaw, accompanied by other stroke symptoms, should not be ignored. -
Numbness or Tingling
Numbness or tingling, especially on one side of the body, could indicate a stroke. -
Mood Swings or Irritation
Sudden mood swings or irritability may indicate brain damage from a stroke. -
Excessive Fatigue and Weakness
Unexplained fatigue or weakness can be a sign of stroke and should not be ignored.
What to do?
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Early treatment is critical and can improve recovery chances. Recognizing these signs can lead to a faster diagnosis and more effective treatment.
