Stroke Warning Signs
When a stroke occurs, recognizing symptoms and using B.E.F.A.S.T. can save a life and decrease the chances of permanent disabilities.
B.E.F.A.S.T.
- Balance: Ask the person if they have experienced a sudden loss of balance.
- Eyes: Ask the person if they have experienced a loss of vision in one or both eyes.
- 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 phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Know the symptoms
- Confusion or difficulty speaking/understanding
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sudden loss of vision
- Sudden numbness, weakness or paralysis of the face or on one side of the body
- Sudden severe headache
- Unexplained dizziness and/or loss of balance
The emergency care departments at Bravera Health are recognized as Primary Stroke Centers, which utilize advanced testing and imaging technology to identify the type of stroke within minutes so treatment can begin as soon as possible.