Which of the following is a sign of stroke?

Unilateral weakness or numbness in the face or arms is a classic sign of a stroke. This symptom often indicates that one side of the brain is experiencing impaired function due to reduced blood flow, which can lead to specific regions being affected in their ability to control movement or sensation.

During a stroke, areas of the brain that manage motor functions and sensory interpretation may be compromised, which is why individuals may experience weakness or numbness on one side of the body. This is frequently described as the inability to lift one side of the face, arm, or leg, and is a critical indicator for medical professionals to assess for potential stroke.

In contrast, the other options present symptoms that do not fulfill the criteria for typical stroke signs. A severe headache can occur in different conditions, such as migraines or tension headaches, but it is not specific to stroke unless accompanied by additional neurological symptoms. Increased heart rate and chest pain are more indicative of cardiovascular issues like a heart attack rather than a stroke. Lastly, persistent coughing, while concerning, is also too vague and does not connect directly with the neurological deficits that characterize a stroke. Thus, unilateral weakness or numbness is the definitive indicator in this scenario.