Use the letters in "fast" to spot stroke signs and know when to call 9-1-1.
FACE DROOPING
Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven or lopsided?
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? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue." Is the person able to correctly repeat the words?
TIME TO CALL 9-1-1
If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and say, "I think this is a stroke" to help get the person to the hospital immediately. Time is important! Don't delay, and also note the time when the first symptoms appeared. Emergency responders will want to know.
Sometimes other symptoms appear, separately, in combination or with F.A.S.T. signs.
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech.
Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg. Especially on one side of the body.
Sudden trouble seeing in one or Both eyes.
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.
Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
If someone shows any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 or emergency medical services immediately.
