While it can be extremely difficult to recognize symptoms of stroke in an adult, it is even more so in children. It is not uncommon for some types of strokes to go unnoticed. The brain is divided into two parts, the left and the right.
The left side of the brain controls the right side of the body as well as speech and language. If your child has experienced a stroke in the left side of his or her brain you may notice difficulty with speaking or reading or weakness on the right side of the body.
The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body. If your child has suffered a stroke on the right side of the brain, the left side of the body will be affected along with perception and motor skills. In this case your child may have difficulty with simple tasks such as buttoning a shirt or may be clumsy due to loss of perception and an inability to judge things like distance.
B.E. F.A.S.T.
Recognize stroke with this simple acronym
B - Balance Sudden trouble with walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination
E - Eyes Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
F - Face Suddenly one side of the face drooping- especially with smile
A - Arm Sudden weakness in one arm or leg
S - Speech Sudden trouble speaking or understanding, confusion
T - Time Time to call 911 because time is brain
In addition, children may experience the following symptoms and warning signs:
- Seizures, especially in newborns
- Worsening or sudden headaches
Children often cannot clearly describe the way they feel. Newborns and infants have no way of expressing their symptoms. If your child has been diagnosed with a disorder, illness or genetic disease or is undergoing certain treatments where stroke could be a possible complication, it is very important to discuss a plan of action with your pediatrician and/or specialist. It is also critical to know these signs and take swift action if you believe your child is having a stroke. It could save his or her life.
Time is crucial. Recognize stroke with this simple acronym:

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