Common Stroke Symptoms A stroke is an interruption of blood flow to the brain, usually caused by blood clots. A stroke can cause vision problems, paralysis, speech difficulties or loss of consciousness. The Women's HeartCare Center of Evansville and Ohio Valley HeartCare can evaluate patients for potential blockages in veins and arteries that could lead to stroke. Take these symptoms seriously and don't delay if you experience them! Contact your physician, dial 911 or proceed to the nearest hospital emergency room if your symptoms warrant it. Sudden numbness or weakness in your face, an arm or leg, or on one side of your body. Sudden dimness or loss of vision, particularly in one eye. Loss of speech, or difficulty talking or understanding speech. Sudden, severe headache with no apparent cause. Dizziness, unsteadiness, or a sudden fall, especially in conjunction with the other symptoms listed on this web page. 1 1 American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Bayer Corporation