"While the classic stroke symptoms are important, women need to be aware that men and women may present differently with acute stroke," Dr. Muqtador says.
Related: Why Some Women Face 78% Higher Stroke Risk—and What to Do About It
Hemiparesis, or weakness on one side, is a common sign of stroke, according to the American Heart Association. However, Dr. Muqtadar says women may experience a different kind of weakness.
2. Sudden headache
Dr. Muqtadar explains that women may have a sudden, severe headache when having a stroke. However, they may ignore it, especially if they have chronic migraines. Migraine with aura (seeing flashes or spots) is a risk factor for strokes, research suggests. Dr. Muqtadar warns that women may also chalk a bad headache up to stress or exhaustion.
Speech difficulty may not be the only sign that a woman is having neurological issues related to a stroke. Dr. Muqtadar says mental and cognitive changes that could suggest a woman is having a stroke include:
Confusion DisorientationMemory problems4. Sudden, persistent hiccups
This one may surprise you. "Sudden, persistent hiccups can be a sign of a brainstem stroke in women, potentially accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, nausea and balance problems," Dr. Muqtadar explains.Indeed, some research, including a small study of 16 people, indicates that hiccups could —keyword, could—be a sign of damage to areas of the brain like the supratentorial cortex, which controls movement.
5. Chest pain
Related: This Blood Type May Put You at the Greatest Risk for Stroke
Why Women Don't Seek Care for Strokes
Dr. Muqtadar says there are other factors besides long-held beliefs about how women "should" behave.
Yet again, women are more likely to experience strokes than men. While it's not completely clear why, Dr. Muqtadar says women may have unique risk factors for strokes, including:
PregnancyUse of oral contraception (The risk is small but not invisible, with the highest risk coming in the first year)Use of hormone replacement therapyRelated: This Unexpected Nighttime Habit Could Reduce Your Risk of Stroke by 44%
"If you or someone is having a stroke, call 911 immediately, even if the symptoms are minor or improving," Dr. Muqtadar emphasizes. "Do not drive yourself or your loved ones to the hospital in the event of a stroke."
"They will perform a rapid assessment, potentially initiate any life-saving interventions if needed and notify the hospital," Dr. Muqtadar explains. "This allows the hospital team to prepare for the patient’s arrival."
Related: Cardiologists Warn That This Is the #1 Worst Habit for Your Heart (And What to Do Instead)
Sources:
Dr. Hurmina Muqtadar, MD, a board-certified vascular neurologist with Endeavor HealthThe Impact of Sex and Gender on Stroke. Circulation.Hemiparesis. American Heart Association.Migraine and risk of stroke. BMJ Journals.Supratentorial infarcts accompanying hiccup. Brain and Behavior.Sex and gender differences in migraines: a narrative review. Neurological Sciences.Menopause and Ischemic Stroke: A Brief Review. MOJ Toxicology.Oral Contraceptives, Hormone Replacement Therapy, and Stroke Risk. Stroke. Read More Details
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