During a stroke, every minute makes a difference. That is why it is important to recognize when a stroke is occurring. Research shows that there is a major lack of public awareness when it comes to knowing the warning signs of stroke.

Warnings Signs include:

• Sudden blindness in one eye
• Sudden weakness or numbness in an arm, leg or the face, particularly affecting only one side.
• "Droop," the sagging of one side of the face, is common.
• Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding others. Blurred vision.
• Sudden whirling dizziness, especially with double vision or slurred speech.
• An excruciating headache may indicate a hemorrhagic stroke when a blood vessel bursts in the brain. But more common ischemic strokes may produce little or no pain.

Bystanders should note that strokes may impair judgment. Victims may be unaware of their attack or attribute it to other factors.