4 surprising signs you may be having a stroke

A stroke is a medical emergency. It happens when blood stops flowing to part of the brain. According to the American Stroke Association, about 1.9 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated. That’s why getting help right away matters so much. The faster someone gets treated, the better their chances of surviving with little or no lasting damage. That means knowing the warning signs could save your life, or someone else’s.

1. Hiccups that won’t stop

A sudden case of hiccups that come out of nowhere and don’t stop after a few minutes may be a sign of a stroke. There's even more cause for concern if the person has other stroke symptoms like trouble talking, a drooping face, etc., but that’s not always the case. Sometimes nonstop hiccups may be the only sign.  

This happens because some strokes occur in the back of the brain. This area controls basic functions, including the reflex that causes hiccups.

Hiccups are annoying and for most, they're harmless. But if hiccups seem to come out of nowhere, and they won’t stop, call 911 right away. Especially if there are other symptoms like dizziness, face drooping or weakness.

2. A sudden change in mood or behavior

Suddenly becoming sad, angry or scared without cause, may be a sign of a stroke. A person may start laughing or crying even when it doesn’t fit the situation. These are signs to be aware of.

The front of the brain helps control behavior and emotions. A stroke in this area of the brain can quickly change how a person acts. The American Stroke Association notes that anger, confusion and impulsive behavior may be signs of a stroke.

A change in mood and behavior isn’t often thought to be a medical emergency. You might think the person is upset, drunk or having a mental health episode. If there are sudden changes, and they can’t “snap out of it,” this may be a reason to call 911. Especially if they have physical symptoms, too. 

3. The worst headache of your life

A sudden headache, more intense than you’ve experienced in the past, can be a sign of a stroke. People often say it feels like being hit in the head. The pain doesn’t build over time—it appears quickly in full force. It may feel like they’re having the worst headache of their life.

This type of headache is called a “thunderclap headache.”  It happens when a blood vessel bursts in or around the brain. This creates sudden pressure and intense pain. 

It can be missed because people who get migraines may think it’s just a more intense version of this type of headache. People may take medication, hoping it’ll help. But if you or anyone you know gets a sudden headache that feels worse than anything you’ve ever experienced, you should call 911. 

4. Sudden confusion or trouble thinking

If you or someone you know suddenly has trouble following a conversation or can’t remember where they are, they might be having a stroke. They may seem lost or disoriented and have trouble finding words or finishing a sentence. 

Strokes can happen in different parts of the brain, including areas that handle memory, language and focus. A stroke in these areas can cause someone to lose the ability to think clearly in a matter of seconds.  

Sudden confusion can look like a lot of things—being tired, having low blood sugar or feeling anxious, so the signs can be overlooked. The person experiencing sudden confusion may be too foggy to ask for help. It’s important to call 911 right away if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms.

The stroke warning signs most people know

Doctors use the acronym of F.A.S.T. to help people remember the most common stroke signs. 

• Face: One side of the face droops. If you ask the person to smile, it looks uneven.

• Arm weakness: One arm is weak or numb. If the person raises both arms, one drifts down. 

• Speech: Words come out slurred or confused. The person may not be able to talk at all.

• Time: It’s time to call 911.

What to do if you think someone is having a stroke

• Call 911 right away. 

• Don’t try to drive yourself or someone else to the hospital. Paramedics can start treatment on the way. They will also let the hospital know you are coming so they’re ready. 

• Write down the time the symptoms started. Doctors need to know this to decide which treatments are safe to use.

If symptoms go away on their own, you should still call 911. That could be a “mini stroke” which is a warning sign that a bigger stroke may be coming soon.