Strokes are serious and can happen without warning. Symptoms may begin up to a month before the event and include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, sudden vision loss, severe headaches, or dizziness. Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or “mini-strokes,” can also mimic stroke-like symptoms but only for a short time. Other warning signs include difficulty speaking or coordinating movements, and unexplained shortness of breath. These early indicators should not be ignored. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately to reduce the risk of more severe consequences. Staying alert to these warning signs can help prevent a stroke or minimize its impact.