The American Heart Association created a memory tool as an easy way to identify the signs of a stroke. If someone you know might be having a stroke, it’s important to think F.A.S.T.:
- Face Drooping
- Arm weakness
- Slurring of speech
- Time to call 911
Immediate treatment can be lifesaving during a stroke and increases chances of a full recovery. It is important to remember that a stroke is a medical emergency and you should call 911 immediately.
Although F.A.S.T. can be an easy way to remember the signs of a stroke, there are several other symptoms to be aware of. These signs of a brain dysfunction include:
- Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Dizziness
- Sudden headache with no cause
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
- Confusion
- Inability to speak or difficulty understanding conversation
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain and/or nausea