Hot summer approaching: Beware of stroke warning signs, often missed by young adults

A stroke is becoming increasingly common among young people, including those as young as 30 years old. A sudden disruption of blood flow in the brain can lead to severe consequences if not quickly identified and appropriately treated. The critical factor is time—in many cases, just 15 minutes can be decisive.

Stroke symptoms are not always immediate. Many patients initially experience what is known as a mini-stroke, which can last from 15 to 60 minutes and, in some cases, up to 24 hours. The symptoms that occur during this time are usually warning signs that signal a full-blown stroke.

People who experience a mini-stroke may have symptoms such as paralysis on one side of the body, sensory disturbances, weakness, and speech problems—slurred or unclear speech or the inability to say any words. Patients may also have difficulty understanding what others are saying.

Other symptoms include dizziness and severe headaches, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Vision disturbances, such as partial vision loss in one eye, double vision, or blurred, hazy vision, should also concern us. A mini-stroke may also present with balance issues.

It is worth emphasizing that in the case of a mini-stroke, the symptoms are localized. They do not appear in large numbers simultaneously (for example, balance issues, weakness in the right hand, and vomiting) and usually resolve on their own within a maximum of 24 hours. However, if we notice at least one symptom suggesting a mini-stroke, we should call an ambulance as soon as possible.