Stroke Symptoms in Women: What to Know and Look For

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States, according to the American Stroke Association, and 60% of stroke deaths are women.

According to Terri Cook, RN, Stroke Program manager at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, women have unique risk factors for stroke.

For instance, hormones play a role in women’s risk for stroke, Terri said. Estrogen produced naturally in the body can have a protective effect against stroke, but estrogen from hormone replacement therapy or birth control may slightly increase stroke risk.

At the same time, Terri says, women with busy lives may downplay symptoms and delay medical care. Terri teaches everyone the acronym BE FAST to help remember and spot stroke symptoms:

• Balance – loss of balance, dizziness
• Eyes – vision changes
• Face – facial drooping, severe headache
• Arm – weakness, numbness
• Speech – trouble speaking, confusion
• Time – to call 911

Also Watch For

In addition to these symptoms, women may experience other subtle warning signs of stroke:

• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sudden severe headaches
• Weakness or fatigue

Women may hesitate to seek medical attention for some of these signs, but they shouldn’t.

“When it comes to a stroke, every second matters,” Terri said. “Call 9-1-1 immediately.”

Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center is a nationally recognized leader in stroke care. To learn more, visit AHCYou.com/S24Stroke.