What are common symptoms of a stroke to watch for?

Sudden numbness in the face, difficulty speaking, and loss of balance are well-recognized symptoms of a stroke, often summarized by the acronym FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services. These symptoms occur due to interrupted blood flow to the brain, which can result in lasting damage if not treated promptly. Recognizing these signs can be crucial for timely medical intervention, which can significantly affect recovery outcomes.

The other options describe symptoms that are not typical of a stroke. Excessive energy and enthusiasm are not associated with strokes, as strokes often lead to weakness and incapacitation. Persistent headaches and nausea could indicate various medical issues, but they are not specific indicators of a stroke. Frequent coughing and high fever might suggest respiratory infections or other illnesses, but they do not correlate with the neurological symptoms typically observed in stroke patients.