Every year, strokes claim millions of lives around the world, many of which could have been prevented if the early warning signs had been recognised and acted upon. A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident, occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients.
The effects can be devastating and irreversible if treatment is not administered promptly. What many people don’t realise is that the body often issues subtle warnings days or even weeks in advance. Recognising these early signs can help save your life or the life of someone close to you.
Below are four medically significant signs that may indicate you are at risk of an imminent stroke, followed by lifestyle considerations that support brain health and circulation.
Nausea and dizziness without clear cause
One of the most commonly overlooked signs of an approaching stroke is persistent nausea and dizziness. These symptoms are often mistaken for heat exhaustion, dehydration, or stress. However, if you have not been exposed to extreme temperatures, are properly hydrated, and are not under unusual stress, unexplained dizziness and nausea should raise a red flag.
These symptoms may result from transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), also known as mini strokes. A TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain and serves as a critical warning sign for future, more severe strokes.
During a TIA, the brain may not receive enough blood, which can cause vertigo, balance problems, and a feeling of unsteadiness. People may also experience difficulty focussing, brief confusion, or a sensation that the room is spinning. If these symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical evaluation. A simple diagnostic scan can often reveal potential circulatory issues before a major event occurs.
Fatigue and persistent headaches
Chronic fatigue that does not improve with rest, especially when combined with ongoing or worsening headaches, is another early indicator of poor brain circulation. This type of fatigue is not the typical tiredness from a long day at work or a poor night’s sleep. It is a deep, lingering exhaustion that seems disproportionate to your daily activity.
When the brain is deprived of sufficient oxygen due to narrowing arteries or clotting, it must work harder to maintain normal function. This increased strain can lead to general fatigue and headaches, often described as dull and constant or throbbing in one area. The headaches may increase in intensity over time, especially in the early morning or late at night, which are periods of natural blood pressure fluctuation.
Many individuals ignore these symptoms or attribute them to stress, dehydration, or eye strain. However, when headaches and fatigue are chronic and unexplained, particularly in those over 50 or with risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes, they should be investigated.
Numbness on one side of the body
Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the face or body is one of the most distinctive warning signs of stroke. This symptom, especially when it affects the face, arm, or leg on one side, is often due to a disruption in the blood supply to specific regions of the brain responsible for sensory and motor control.
You might notice that your facial expressions become asymmetrical, or that your smile appears uneven. You may feel as if your leg or arm has “fallen asleep” but without an obvious reason. Some people describe it as a tingling sensation, while others report complete loss of feeling or coordination. Even if the numbness is brief and goes away, it should never be ignored. This could indicate a TIA or the very early stages of a full-blown stroke.
Immediate medical attention is essential. In many cases, early treatment can restore blood flow and prevent permanent damage. Time is critical the sooner a stroke is diagnosed and managed, the better the chance of recovery.
Sudden vision changes
The brain relies heavily on a continuous blood supply to interpret visual information. When blood flow is restricted, it can lead to sudden visual disturbances, including blurriness, double vision, partial blindness, or difficulty focusing. These symptoms can affect one or both eyes and often come on without warning.
You may find yourself squinting more than usual, struggling to read, or unable to see clearly out of one eye. In some cases, individuals report seeing dark spots, flashing lights, or a sensation of “a curtain falling” over their vision.
These vision issues are often related to problems in the occipital lobe or the optic nerve pathways, both of which can be affected by interrupted blood flow. If you experience any sudden changes in vision, especially in combination with dizziness or numbness, do not delay. This is a strong indication that a stroke may be imminent, and you should be seen by a healthcare professional urgently.
Supporting brain health and circulation naturally
While recognising the warning signs is essential, maintaining good circulatory health is a key preventative strategy. This includes staying active, eating a balanced diet, managing blood pressure, and avoiding smoking. Some individuals also explore supplements that support vascular health.
One such natural supplement that has gained attention is shilajit, a mineral-rich substance traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Shilajit contains over 80 trace minerals and is known to support healthy blood pressure, improve nitric oxide production (which dilates blood vessels), and reduce oxidative stress all of which contribute to a reduced risk of stroke.
Nitric oxide helps to widen blood vessels, enhancing the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. This compound is especially important as people age, since natural nitric oxide levels tend to decline over time. By supporting endothelial function, shilajit may help improve circulation and contribute to overall cognitive health.
However, it is crucial to choose pure, lab-tested shilajit, as many commercially available products may be contaminated or of poor quality. As with any supplement, consult a healthcare provider before starting a new routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.
When to see a doctor
If you or someone you know experiences any of the symptoms outlined above unexplained nausea and dizziness, persistent fatigue and headaches, sudden numbness on one side of the body, or abrupt changes in vision it is essential to seek immediate medical advice. Even if the symptoms seem minor or pass quickly, they may signal a serious underlying issue.
Use the FAST test to remember the most urgent signs of stroke:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call emergency services
Even outside of these classic symptoms, the body often gives quieter, earlier signals. Do not wait for a major event to take action.

Mineral Shilajit
- Supports overall health
- 84+ minerals that promote healthy bodily functions
- Improves brain function
Conclusion
A stroke can have life-altering consequences, but many strokes are preventable with early detection and lifestyle intervention. Recognising the early warning signs such as dizziness, fatigue, one-sided numbness, and vision changes can dramatically improve outcomes. If these symptoms are present and unexplained, it is vital to consult a healthcare professional.
In addition to being aware of these signs, supporting your vascular and neurological health through lifestyle choices and, when appropriate, natural supplements like shilajit can form part of a broader stroke prevention strategy. Prevention starts with awareness, and in the case of stroke, that awareness could be lifesaving.
_______________________

Every month in 2025 we will be giving away one PlayStation 5 Pro. To qualify subscribe to our newsletter.
When you buy something through our retail links, we may earn commission and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Recent Articles
- Unleashing creativity with invideo AI v4.0: Revolutionising video content creation for all
- Why communism is regaining popularity among young people in 2025
- Pepper’s anti-cancer properties: What the science really says
- Buying the perfect TV for viewing the World Cup: A complete guide
- Trinidad and Tobago for digital nomads: Summer travel & remote work guide
You may also like:
Understanding high blood pressure: The silent killer
Understanding stroke recovery and prevention: Insights and strategies
Know the signs: How to recognise and respond to a mild stroke
Lower blood pressure and keep your family healthy with these 10 natural remedies
Age calculator: 7 main concerns with age deficit
Stay healthy by doing these 5 things every day
The transformative health benefits for women who quit smoking
What you eat, how it affects your health, and how to change it
Boba nutrition facts for the regular boba tea drinkers
@sweettntmagazine