Stroke Warning Signs

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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 B.E. 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

B.E. F.A.S.T.

• Balance: Is there a sudden loss of balance?
• Eyesight: Is there a change in vision in one eye 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.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.