A month before a stroke, your body will send you these warning signs: What to watch for
Strokes are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, but many people don’t realize that their bodies often send you warning signs long before. Understanding and recognizing these signs can make a life-saving difference. While a stroke can strike suddenly, there are many cases where the body sends early warning signs—sometimes as long as a month before a stroke occurs.

This article will explore these early signs, and help you recognize them in time to take action. We’ll explain the physiological process of stroke, cover the most common types of stroke, and delve into the subtle and not-so-subtle symptoms that can appear weeks or days before a major event. By the end, you’ll be better prepared to recognize potential signs of stroke in yourself or others and understand the steps you can take to prevent one.

What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. This can be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). A third, less severe type of stroke, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), involves a temporary interruption of blood flow.