Stroke Warning Signs: How to Act F.A.S.T. and Save a Life

A stroke can happen suddenly and without warning. It occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts, causing brain cells to die. Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and serious disability in the United States. The good news: recognizing the signs and acting quickly can save a life and improve recovery.

Why Time Matters

During a stroke, millions of brain cells die every minute. That’s why doctors say, “time is brain.” The faster someone receives medical care, the better the chance of reducing long-term effects such as paralysis, difficulty speaking, or memory loss.

Know the F.A.S.T. Method

The easiest way to remember the signs of stroke is the acronym F.A.S.T.

• F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• A – Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward or feel weak?
• S – Speech: Ask them to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred, strange, or hard to understand?
• T – Time: If you see any of these warning signs, don’t wait. Call 911 immediately.

Other Possible Stroke Symptoms

While F.A.S.T. covers the most common signs, strokes can sometimes cause additional symptoms:

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

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, treat it as an emergency.

Reducing Your Risk of Stroke

Not all strokes can be prevented, but healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk:

• Manage blood pressure — high blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke
• Stay active with regular exercise
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Work with your doctor to manage diabetes, heart disease, or high cholesterol

When to Seek Help

If you suspect a stroke, don’t drive yourself or wait to see if symptoms improve. Call 911 right away. Emergency responders can begin treatment on the way to the hospital, saving precious minutes.

Think F.A.S.T. — Face, Arms, Speech, Time. Calling 911 immediately could save a life.