Signs That Might Save a Life From Stroke

35. Abrupt Difficulty in Performing a Learned Skill (Apraxia)

Beyond general clumsiness, a stroke can cause a very specific and alarming symptom known as apraxia. This is a sudden, unexplained inability to perform a learned, purposeful movement, even though the person has the desire and physical ability to do so. For example, a person might suddenly forget how to use a fork, brush their teeth, or even snap their fingers. This isn't a matter of forgetting what the object is, but rather how to perform the action. This direct disruption of the brain's motor memory is a clear red flag that a stroke has occurred.

36. The Sudden Feeling of Lightness in an Arm or Leg

While numbness and heaviness are common stroke symptoms, a sudden feeling of lightness or disembodiment in a limb can also be a sign. This is a sensory disturbance where the person feels as though their arm or leg is not part of their body, or that it feels unusually light, even weightless. This can make it difficult to perform a simple task like walking, as the person may not be able to feel their foot making contact with the ground. This specific and unusual sensation is a direct signal that the brain's sensory cortex has been affected.