A stroke can be a scary thing to experience. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke may assist in being able to take quick action and perhaps save a life.

The signs of a stroke are:

Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, usually on one side of the body.
Sudden confusion, difficulty understanding or speaking.
Sudden trouble with vision in one or both eyes.
Sudden trouble walking or with loss of balance or coordination.
Sudden severe headaches with no known cause.

Acting F.A.S.T. may help someone get treatments desperately needed, as stroke treatments work best if recognized and diagnosed within the 3 hours of the first symptom.

F-Face: Ask the person to smile. Notice if one side of the face droops.
A-Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Notice if one arm drifts downward.
S-Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Notice if the speech is slurred or strange.
T-Time: If any of these signs are noticed, call 9-1-1 right away.

Noting the time when the symptoms first appear helps health care providers determine the best treatment.

Learn More:

Stroke [Internet] Mayo Clinic. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113

Stroke Signs and Symptoms [Internet] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/signs_symptoms.htm