Definition of Silent stroke

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Silent stroke: Small strokes that do not cause any symptoms. Silent strokes still damage brain tissue.

The most common symptom of a stroke is weakness or paralysis on one side of the body or the other. There may be a partial or complete loss of voluntary movement and/or sensation in a leg and/or arm. A stroke can cause speech problems and weak muscles of the face, which can cause drooling. Numbness or tingling in the leg, arm, or face is very common. A stroke involving the base of the brain can affect balance, vision, and swallowing functions. A stroke can cause difficulty breathing and even unconsciousness.