Did you know your body might be trying to warn you about a stroke long before it actually happens? Contrary to popular belief, strokes don’t always strike out of nowhere. In fact, studies show that warning signs can begin showing up as early as 90 days in advance. If you pay attention to your body’s signals, you could prevent a life-threatening medical emergency.
Let’s dive into what causes strokes, how to spot the earliest signs, and what you can do today to protect your brain health.
Understanding What Causes a Stroke
Before we break down the symptoms, let’s clarify what a stroke is.
A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is cut off. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die within minutes. This leads to a range of problems—from difficulty speaking to permanent paralysis, and in severe cases, death.
There are three main types of strokes you should know about:
- Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common kind and occurs when a blood clot blocks a vessel in the brain.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: This happens when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding in the brain.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a “mini-stroke,” a TIA is temporary and doesn’t cause lasting damage—but it is a major red flag for an impending stroke.
Early Symptoms May Appear Months in Advance
According to leading neurologists like Dr. Giglio and Dr. Joshua Willey, some stroke warning signs can start weeks or even months before a major episode. This is especially true with TIAs. You might feel normal again after a few minutes, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.
Dr. Giglio puts it simply: “If you have symptoms of a TIA, don’t ignore them. You could be at risk of a full stroke within the next 48 hours, or anytime within the next 90 days.”
The BEFAST Method: Know the Key Stroke Symptoms
When it comes to stroke, every second counts. Experts recommend using the BEFAST acronym to remember the most common warning signs:
Video : 3 Early Warning Signs of a Stroke
B – Balance
Are you suddenly having trouble staying upright or walking straight?
E – Eyes
Is your vision blurry? Are you seeing double or losing sight in one eye?
F – Face
Try smiling. Does one side of your face droop or feel numb?
A – Arms
Lift both arms. Does one drift downward? Do you feel weakness or tingling?
S – Speech
Are you slurring words or struggling to get sentences out?
T – Time
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to act—immediately. Call emergency services without delay.
Dr. Willey also notes that “T” can stand for ‘terrible headache’—an intense, sudden headache that could indicate a brain bleed.
Even if symptoms disappear in under a minute, they matter. According to Dr. Willey, some TIA symptoms may last only 30 to 60 seconds, but that’s still enough to warrant a trip to the ER.
Don’t Dismiss These Subtle, Early Clues
Many people shrug off early stroke symptoms because they seem minor. But those seemingly harmless moments—like suddenly feeling dizzy or seeing stars—could be your body waving a red flag.
Here are a few subtle symptoms that may appear up to 90 days in advance:
- Temporary numbness or tingling in the limbs
- Brief episodes of vision loss or double vision
- Unexplained dizziness or imbalance
- Confusion or memory lapses
- Short-term difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Sudden fatigue without clear cause
If these occur, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or diabetes, see your doctor right away.
Managing Risk Factors Can Save Your Life
While you can’t control your age or genetics, you absolutely can control lifestyle-based risk factors.
Dr. Itrat and the CDC recommend the following strategies to reduce your stroke risk:
- Monitor your blood pressure: High blood pressure is the No. 1 cause of stroke.
- Control cholesterol and blood sugar levels: Regular checkups and appropriate medications can help.
- Stay active: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
- Eat for your heart: Choose whole grains, leafy greens, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: These habits increase the chance of artery damage and clotting.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress increases inflammation and raises blood pressure.
The 90-Day Countdown: Why Time Matters
Think of a TIA as a smoke alarm going off. It might be brief, but it’s loud and clear: there’s danger ahead.
Most people who suffer a TIA won’t get a second chance. Research shows that a major stroke often follows within days or weeks, and 1 in 3 people who experience a TIA will eventually have a full stroke.
That’s why immediate evaluation, even after symptoms subside, is so critical.
What Should You Do If You Notice Symptoms?
Don’t wait. Even if you’re feeling fine minutes later, call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. A CT scan, MRI, or blood test can detect potential stroke causes like clots or narrowed arteries.
Video : First Aid Skills: Stroke
Your doctor may prescribe blood thinners or recommend lifestyle changes, depending on your health profile. Acting fast can be the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability—or worse.
Final Thoughts: Prevention Is Power
A stroke may strike suddenly, but it rarely comes without warning. Your body often whispers before it screams.
By learning the early signs—especially the subtle ones—you can take action long before disaster strikes. Remember the BEFAST method. Listen to your body. And don’t downplay those odd sensations that feel off.
Most importantly, take care of your health today so you’re not fighting for it tomorrow. Prevention isn’t just smart—it’s lifesaving.
Take control, stay aware, and give your brain the care it deserves.
