When most people think of strokes, they tend to picture an older adult, maybe someone in their 60s or 70s. But here’s the reality: strokes can strike anyone, no matter their age. Shocking as it may be, stroke rates are increasing in young people. According to the American Heart Association, strokes among individuals under 50 are on the rise. In fact, in the United States, stroke diagnoses in young adults have jumped by a staggering 40% over the past few decades. Even more surprising, about 10 to 15% of all strokes happen to people between the ages of 18 and 50.

This isn’t just a scary statistic—it’s a wake-up call. Younger adults need to be aware of the risks and warning signs of stroke because early recognition and prompt medical care can be lifesaving.

What Causes Strokes in Younger Adults?

We often hear about common stroke risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and blood clots, which certainly apply across all age groups. But young adults also face additional risks that make them more vulnerable. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, binge drinking, recreational drug use, and poor diet contribute significantly. Obesity and high cholesterol are becoming more common in younger populations as well, raising the risk of stroke even further.

Some people also have medical conditions that increase their chances of having a stroke early in life. For example, sickle cell disease can be a major risk factor. Nearly 25% of people with this disease experience a stroke before their fourth birthday. Genetics can play a role, too, as well as pregnancy-related complications.

Because the warning signs of a stroke can be subtle—or mimic other less serious issues—it’s important to stay alert. Let’s walk through five common symptoms of stroke in young people that should never be ignored.

1. Sudden, Severe Headaches

If you suddenly get a pounding headache that feels like nothing you’ve experienced before, take it seriously. While headaches are common and often harmless, an abrupt and extremely painful headache can signal a hemorrhagic stroke. This type of stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and causes bleeding. It’s a medical emergency that can lead to rapid deterioration.

People sometimes describe these headaches as “the worst headache of their life.” If you experience something similar—especially if it strikes out of nowhere and is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or neck stiffness—call 911 or get to the emergency room immediately.

Even if you’re someone who deals with migraines, it’s important to recognize when a headache feels different in intensity or character. Don’t brush it off.

2. Sudden Numbness or Weakness—Especially on One Side

Another red flag is sudden numbness or weakness, often affecting just one side of the body. You might notice it in your face, an arm, or a leg. This symptom occurs when the blood supply to a certain part of the brain is cut off, causing those brain cells to die. The result? Loss of control over muscles and movement in specific areas.

If you suddenly feel weak on one side, have difficulty lifting an arm, or notice a drooping in one side of your face, it’s time to get help. These are telltale signs that your brain isn’t getting enough oxygen and nutrients. If left untreated, the damage could be permanent.

Some people describe the sensation as a sudden tingling or numbness, like a limb falling asleep but far more intense and alarming. If you experience this, don’t wait it out—call for medical assistance immediately.

3. Trouble Speaking or Understanding Speech

Have you ever had difficulty finding the right word or felt like your tongue wasn’t working properly? While occasional speech hiccups happen to everyone, sudden and severe language difficulties can indicate a stroke.

You might start slurring your words or find that you can’t understand what others are saying. Some people suddenly can’t form sentences at all. This happens when the stroke affects the brain’s language centers.

In some cases, the confusion and difficulty may be subtle. You may not realize you’re having trouble until someone points it out. Regardless of how mild it seems, it’s crucial to get evaluated by a doctor right away. Delaying care can lead to worsening symptoms and long-term complications.

4. Vision Problems—Blurry, Double, or Loss of Vision

Vision issues are another common stroke symptom. These can show up as blurry vision, double vision, or even a complete loss of vision in one or both eyes. This often occurs when the stroke impacts the areas of the brain responsible for processing visual information.

For example, an ischemic stroke in the occipital lobe can lead to sudden blindness in one eye or cause damage to your field of vision. Some people also report seeing flashing lights or feeling as though a shade has been pulled over one eye.

If you experience sudden vision changes, get medical attention immediately. Vision loss can be permanent if the stroke is not treated quickly. Remember, your eyes themselves may be perfectly healthy—it’s your brain’s ability to process what you’re seeing that’s at risk.

5. Loss of Balance, Dizziness, or Coordination Problems

Imagine standing up and suddenly feeling as though the room is spinning, or trying to walk only to find your legs won’t cooperate. These are classic signs of a stroke affecting the cerebellum—the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination.

People having a stroke might stumble while walking, feel dizzy, or even fall over without explanation. Sometimes this vertigo is mistaken for an inner ear problem or simple clumsiness. But if balance issues come on suddenly and are accompanied by other stroke symptoms, it’s time to act fast.

Don’t dismiss these signs as just being tired or dehydrated. A stroke demands immediate medical evaluation.

Final Thoughts: Know the Signs and Act Fast

Strokes don’t discriminate by age. Even if you’re young and healthy, understanding the signs and symptoms can make all the difference. Fast action is critical when it comes to strokes—the sooner you receive medical treatment, the better your chances of a full recovery.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms—sudden headaches, numbness, speech issues, vision problems, or balance difficulties—don’t hesitate. Call 911 or get to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Staying informed and recognizing these symptoms early can truly save a life.