Stroke Warning Signs
According to the National Stroke Association, a stroke is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and the leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability. This year, a stroke will occur every 40 seconds and will take a life every four hours. Two million brain cells die every minute during stroke, increasing the risk of permanent brain damage, disability or death.
Recognizing symptoms and acting F.A.S.T. can save a life and decrease the chances of permanent disabilities.
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
Act F.A.S.T.
- 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.
Why every second counts
- When you are having a stroke, a blockage or hemorrhage cuts off oxygen to part of the brain
- Every second that goes by costs thousands of brain cells, which may or may not be recovered
- Survival and degree of recovery depend on how quickly a precise diagnosis can be made and treatment can begin
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.