Health Highlights
Stroke Signs and Symptoms
This month's Health Highlights features the signs of a stroke and what action needs to be taken.
During a stroke, every minute counts! Fast treatment can lessen the brain damage a stroke can cause.
By knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke, you can take quick action and perhaps save a life — maybe even your own…
What are the signs of stroke in men and women?
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Act F.A.S.T. to identify a stroke
The stroke treatments that work best are available only if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within three hours of the first symptoms. Stroke patients may not be eligible for these if they don’t arrive at the hospital in time.
F
Face
Ask the person to smile.
Does one side of the face droop?
A
Arms
Ask the person to raise both arms.
Does one arm drift downward?
S
Speech
Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase.
Is the speech slurred or strange?
T
Time
If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away.
Do not drive to the hospital or let someone else drive you. Call 911 for an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the emergency room.
