Skip to content
WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Videos

Stroke Health Center

Stroke Overview

Stroke is brain damage caused by a blocked blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. The signs of a stroke may include weakness, numbness, blurred vision, confusion, and slurred speech. Getting to a hospital quickly is vital for a good outcome with a stroke.

Select a Chapter

Latest Headlines
Shingles May Raise Risk of Stroke
Adults with shingles are at increased risk for stroke, especially if they have shingles that affects the eyes, a study shows.

Community & Resources

Symptoms

If you have symptoms of a stroke, seek emergency medical care . General symptoms of a stroke include:

  • Sudden numbness, paralysis, or weakness in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
  • New problems with walking or balance.
  • Sudden vision changes.
  • Drooling or slurred speech.
  • New problems speaking or understanding simple statements, or feeling confused.
  • A sudden, severe headache that is different from past headaches.
webMD Video

Show or hide information about video: BOTOX for Stroke

  BOTOX for Stroke

Here's news you can use: Botox isn't just for frown lines. Learn how the diluted toxin helps stroke patients get back to life.

Watch Video: BOTOX for Stroke

 (opens in a new window)

Show or hide information about video: Detecting High School Hypertension   Detecting High School Hypertension

Show or hide information about video: Fast, Effective Stroke Treatment   Fast, Effective Stroke Treatment

Show or hide information about video: Prescribing Music for the Heart   Prescribing Music for the Heart

Show or hide information about video: Soy for High Blood Pressure   Soy for High Blood Pressure