TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in Indonesia. Data from the Ministry of Health in 2024 show that stroke accounts for 18.5 percent of all deaths and 11.2 percent of disabilities nationwide. The condition occurs when the brain’s oxygen supply is disrupted, either by a blocked or burst blood vessel.
Without prompt treatment, brain cells begin to die within minutes, potentially resulting in paralysis, impaired speech, or permanent disability.
Although many strokes strike suddenly, some develop gradually over weeks or even months. In these cases, the body may send early warning signals long before a full episode occurs. Unfortunately, these subtle symptoms often go unnoticed or are mistaken for fatigue, stress, or minor ailments.
Below are five warning signs of stroke that may appear as early as one month beforehand, as highlighted by the Times of India.
1. Severe Headaches
A persistent or unusually intense headache can be an early indicator of an impending stroke. Unlike common headaches, this pain often appears without a clear trigger, intensifies over time, and does not improve even after taking medication.
Because the pain may stem from increased pressure or disrupted blood flow in the brain, severe or sudden headaches should not be ignored. Seek medical attention if the symptoms are persistent or unusual.
2. Numbness on One Side of the Body
Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, particularly on one side of the body, is another serious warning sign. This occurs when the brain regions responsible for movement and sensation receive insufficient blood supply.
The numbness may appear intermittently or develop gradually. Recurrent episodes of weakness or tingling warrant immediate medical evaluation.
3. Difficulty Speaking
Trouble speaking or understanding speech can signal early disruption in the brain’s language centers. A person may struggle to form words, speak clearly, or comprehend simple sentences. These symptoms are often subtle at first but may worsen over time. Any unexplained difficulty with speech should be evaluated promptly.
4. Sudden Blurred Vision
Sudden changes in vision, such as blurred sight, double vision, or partial loss of vision, may indicate a stroke-related problem in the brain’s visual processing area. If vision disturbances last for hours or occur repeatedly, seek medical help.
5. Loss of Balance
Dizziness, unsteady movement, or difficulty walking can signal early impairment of the brain regions that control balance and coordination. Reduced blood flow or tiny blockages in these areas may cause vertigo-like symptoms and instability while walking.
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