Get Immediate Help
If you or someone you're with shows the signs of a stroke, don't wait to seek help. Calling 911 is the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency Medical Services can begin treating you on the way to the hospital.
Stroke Warning Signs
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so it starts to die. Knowing the warning signs of a stroke and getting immediate medical help can save a life.
- 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
Another way to watch for the warning signs is to think FAST:
F = Face
Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A = Arms
Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S = Speech
Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred?
T = Time
If you observe any of these signs, then it’s time to call 9-1-1.