The evaluation of a stroke begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with a stroke may include:

• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Vision loss
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty with balance
• Loss of coordination
• One-sided numbness in the limbs or face:
• Facial numbness (unilateral)
• Leg numbness (unilateral)
• Arm numbness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg numbness (unilateral)
• One-sided weakness in the limbs or face:
• Face weakness
• Arm weakness (unilateral)
• Leg weakness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg weakness (unilateral)
• Xanthelasma

Tests that may be used to evaluate a stroke may include:

• CT scanning of the brain
• MRI scan of the brain
• SPECT scan of the brain
• PET scan of the brain
• Coagulation profile
• Electrocardiogram
• Electrolyte profile
• Pulse oximetry

Carotid artery tests for a stroke include:

• Carotid angiogram
• Carotid ultrasound
• MRI angiography of the carotid arteries

Less commonly performed tests that may be used to evaluate a stroke include:

• Cerebral angiogram
• CT angiography of the brain
• MRI angiography or the brain