Every Second Counts: Stroke Act F.A.S.T.

The first and best step to save a life is to get help quickly when something goes wrong. Stroke is the second reason for death and a leading cause of disability worldwide. A stroke happens when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When it takes place, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs so brain cells die.

When someone shows symptoms of stroke, they need fast instant medical attention. The faster patients get help, the lower their chances of permanent damage. Now the question is what are the stroke symptoms? F.A.S.T. Is an easy way to remember the sudden signs and symptoms of a stroke. When you can spot the signs, you’ll know quickly that you need to call for help.

F.A.S.T. is:

Face: Drooping Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile.

Arm: Weakness Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech: Difficulty Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “the sky is blue.” Is the sentence repeated correctly?

Time: To call 1-2-3 if the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 1-2-3 and get them to the hospital immediately.
Other symptoms

(The 5 S):

Sudden numbness or weakness of the leg.

Sudden confusion or trouble understanding.

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.

Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Think and act fast. The faster you act the more of the person you save. When stroke strikes act fast.