How to Tell if Someone Has Had a Stroke

A stroke is a life-threatening event caused by loss of oxygen to the brain. Time is critical in treating strokes. With each minute that passes, more brain cells die. Recognizing the signs of stroke in yourself or someone else can mean the difference between life and death. Use FAST (a simple acronym developed by the National Stroke Association) to check for signs of stroke and get help.

Instructions

• 1

  Check for numbness or weakness in the face (the F in FAST) by asking the person to smile. If one side of the face droops or the person can't smile, it may mean stroke. Strokes cause weakness or numbness to the face. The numbness or weakness is usually limited to one side of the face.

• 2

  Look for muscle weakness. Ask the person to raise both arms (the A in FAST). If one arm drifts down or can't be raised, it may mean stroke. Strokes cause muscle weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, usually limited to one side. The person may also have trouble walking or keeping balance.

• 3

  Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If the speech (the S in FAST) is slurred or hard to understand, or the person has trouble remembering the words to repeat, it may mean stroke. Strokes cause sudden difficulty with speech and comprehension, as well as dizziness and confusion.

• 4

  Get help immediately if you or someone else experience any of the signs of stroke. Call 911 or get the person to a hospital. Tell emergency medical personnel you're dealing with a possible stroke, so they can start proper treatment right away. Time (the T in FAST) is the most important factor in helping someone survive a stroke or limit its effects.