What are the signs of stroke?

  • Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden severe headaches with no known cause

Some find that it is easier to remember the signs of stroke with the acronym FAST.

Face – Ask the person to smile.  Does one side of the face droop?
Arm – Ask the person to raise both arms.  Does the arm drift downward?
Speech – Ask the person to say a simple phrase.  Does the speech sound slurred or strange?
Time – If you observe any of these signs CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY.