Signs of a Stroke
A stroke occurs when there is a block or rupture in a blood vessel in the brain. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. as well as a leading cause of long-term disability in adults. More women than men have a stroke each year, but it can happy to anyone at any time regardless of age, race, or sex. A way to remember the signs of a stroke is to use think “F.A.S.T.”
F: Face drooping. Ask the person to smile. Is their smile uneven? Is one side of their face numb?
A: Arm weakness. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does 1 arm start of fall downward? Is 1 arm weak or numb?
S: Speech difficult. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?
T: Time to call 9-1-1. If you observe any of these signs, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the emergency room.
Source: Move Forward PT
