8 Warning Signs of Stroke That May Appear One Month Before and 9 Tips to Prevent It

8 “warning signs” before a stroke — an important correction

The claim that there are 8 predictable symptoms that appear one month before a stroke isn’t supported by medical evidence. A stroke usually causes sudden neurological symptoms. However, a TIA (transient ischemic attack) can produce the same symptoms temporarily and can be an important warning that a stroke may follow. CDC+1

Watch for sudden:

Face drooping or facial numbness
Weakness or numbness of an arm
Weakness or numbness of a leg, particularly on one side
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
Difficulty understanding speech
Sudden vision changes
Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or trouble walking
A sudden, severe headache with no known cause CDC+1

🚨 Don’t wait for symptoms to last

If these symptoms occur—even if they disappear after a few minutes—treat them as an emergency. You cannot reliably tell at home whether it’s a TIA or a completed stroke. CDC+1

Remember B.E. F.A.S.T.:

B — Balance: sudden loss of balance
E — Eyes: sudden vision changes
F — Face: facial drooping
A — Arm: sudden weakness/numbness
S — Speech: speech difficulty
T — Time: call emergency services immediately

9 ways to reduce stroke risk

Many strokes can be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors. CDC+1

Control high blood pressure — one of the most important modifiable risk factors.
Manage cholesterol with diet, activity, and prescribed medication when appropriate.
Keep diabetes under control.
Don’t smoke or use tobacco.
Exercise regularly—for many adults, about 150 minutes of moderate activity per week is a commonly recommended target.
Eat a heart-healthy diet, emphasizing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and limiting excess sodium and saturated/trans fats.
Maintain a healthy weight when possible.
Limit alcohol and avoid binge drinking.
Treat conditions such as atrial fibrillation and sleep apnea according to medical advice. CDC+1