Signs of a Stroke

If you have any of the following symptoms call 911 immediately!

  1. Sudden Weakness or Numbness
    • One side of the face or body may suddenly become weak or numb. The face, arms, or legs are typically affected.
  2. Sudden Confusion or Trouble Speaking
    • Difficulty speaking clearly or understanding speech.
  3. Sudden Vision Problems
    • Sudden blurred or double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
  4. Sudden Severe Headache
    • An abrupt, severe headache with no known cause. Often described as the worst headache of one’s life.
  5. Sudden Trouble Walking or Loss of Coordination
    • Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking.

Act F.A.S.T.

It’s important to act fast if you think someone’s having a stroke! Recognize the symptoms by thinking F.A.S.T.

F – Face: Ask them to smile. Does either side of their face droop?

A – Arms: Ask them to raise both of their arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S – Speech: Ask them to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?

T – Time: Note the exact time you noticed the symptoms. Call 911 and tell them the time you think the stroke began.

A drug called t-PA can reduce or even eliminate problems from a stroke, but it must be given within 3 hours from the start of symptoms.

For more information: https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-stroke