Warning Signs of Stroke

To recognize that a stroke is occurring, the National Stroke Association developed a simple assessment tool called FAST.

Face — Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? 
Arms — Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? 
Speech — Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is his/her speech slurred? Can he/she repeat the sentence correctly? 
Time — If the person shows any of these symptoms, time is important. Call 911. Getting medical treatment within 60 minutes of an attack can prevent the onset of long-term disabilities.

Because stroke injures the brain, you may not realize that you are having a stroke, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. To a bystander, someone having a stroke may just look unaware or confused. Stroke victims have the best chance for survival and recovery if someone around them recognizes the symptoms and acts quickly.

Know the Symptoms of Stroke

The symptoms of stroke are distinct because they happen quickly.

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body)
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause