What is hemiparesis?

Hemiparesis refers specifically to weakness that affects one side of the body. It typically arises from conditions that impact the neurological functions, such as a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or certain neurological disorders. The term "hemi-" means half, indicating that the weakness is unilateral. This can manifest in difficulties with strength and movement on the affected side, impacting activities of daily living and overall mobility.

In contrast, loss of consciousness on one side does not accurately describe hemiparesis, as this condition specifically relates to physical weakness rather than consciousness. Full paralysis of one limb would be described as hemiplegia, which involves total loss of function, while hemiparesis allows for some movement or function to remain. Lastly, a severe headache affecting one side relates more to conditions such as migraines or other forms of headache and is not connected to the weakness observed in hemiparesis.