Signs That Might Save a Life From Stroke

45. Abrupt "Out-of-Body" Sensation

A stroke can cause a profound and terrifying sensory disturbance where a person feels a sudden disconnection from their own body. This isn't a feeling of lightness, but a distinct sense that their body isn't their own, or that they are observing themselves from outside. This bizarre phenomenon, known as somatoparaphrenia, is a rare but serious symptom of a stroke affecting the parietal lobe, the part of the brain responsible for spatial awareness and body image. This sudden and profound feeling of disembodiment is a clear neurological red flag that requires immediate attention.

46. Sudden, Unexplained Emotional Lability

Beyond general behavioral changes, a stroke can cause a very specific symptom known as emotional lability. This is a sudden, unexplained, and extreme shift in emotional expression, such as bursting into tears or uncontrollable laughter that is not in line with the situation. For example, a person may start crying while watching a neutral commercial or laugh uncontrollably during a serious conversation. This is not a personality change, but a direct result of a stroke disrupting the brain's limbic system, which controls emotional regulation. This symptom can be particularly confusing for loved ones, but it is a critical sign of a neurological emergency.