If you are experiencing or witnessing someone experiencing a stroke, every second matters. The faster a stroke patient receives treatment, the greater the chances of no or minimal disability or death. (American Stroke Association)
The following information is taken directly from the CDC:
Signs and Symptoms of Stroke
- 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.
If you are witnessing someone with stroke symptoms, act F.A.S.T by acting the potential stroke victim the following questions:
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.
Note the time when any symptoms first appear. This information helps health care providers determine the best treatment.
Do not drive to the hospital or let someone else drive you. Call 9-1-1 for an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the emergency room.