Suspect a Stroke? Act F-A-S-T

Information compiled by KaeBeth Rosenberg

Strokes are the third leading cause of death in America and one of the top causes of disability in adults.  Strokes, or “brain attacks”, occur when an artery is blocked by a blood clot, or a blood vessel breaks.  When this happens, blood flow to the brain is lost, which can cause serious brain damage.

If you suspect that someone has had a stroke, you must act quickly.  The acronym “FAST” can help you recall the signs of stroke, and your reaction if stroke has occurred.

F = Face.  You should ask the person to smile.  Observe if their face droops on one side.

A = Arms.  Ask the person to raise both of their arms.  See if one arm drifts down.

S = Speech.  Have the person repeat a simple sentence such as “It is sunny today.”  Note if words are slurred, or they are unable to speak.

T= Time.  If a person shows any of these symptoms, you must act immediately.  Call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital as soon as possible.  The first three hours of stroke onset are critical for treatment.

To learn more about stroke symptoms, prevention, and care, contact your doctor or the National Stroke Association at (800) STROKES.