Stroke Warning Signs
According to the National Stroke Association, a stroke is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and the leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability. This year, a stroke will occur every 40 seconds and will take a life every four hours. Two million brain cells die every minute during stroke, increasing the risk of permanent brain damage, disability or death.
Recognizing symptoms and acting F.A.S.T. can save a life and decrease the chances of permanent disabilities.
Know the symptoms:
- Sudden numbness or weakness 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 headache with no known cause
These warning signs can be remembered by the acronym ACT F.A.S.T.:
- Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Stroke risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol use
- Physical inactivity and obesity
- Atrial fibrillation
- Family history of stroke
Get help immediately if you suspect a stroke may be occurring. Call 911 and have the ambulance go to the nearest stroke center such as Merit Health River Oaks.