​Recognizing the Early Signs of a Stroke Could Save a Life

A stroke can happen suddenly and without warning. Knowing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly can improve treatment and recovery. Every minute matters in stroke care.

Stroke symptoms may not always be obvious. Learning to recognize the warning signs can help you act quickly and get emergency care for yourself or someone else. The American Stroke Association uses B.E. F.A.S.T. to help people remember the warning signs of a stroke: Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time.

Why Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke Matters

During a stroke, blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or reduced, which keeps the brain from getting the oxygen it needs. Brain cells can begin to die within minutes. That is why recognizing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly matters.

Some stroke treatments work best when given as soon as possible after symptoms begin. Delaying care can limit treatment options and increase the risk of lasting damage. Getting emergency care quickly gives a person the best chance of treatment and recovery.

Here are the signs of a stroke to watch for and what to do if you notice them.

1) Sudden Numbness or Weakness

One of the most common signs of a stroke is sudden numbness or weakness. This often affects one side of the body, such as the face, arm, or leg. The weakness or numbness may appear suddenly without a clear cause.

Remember the “A” in BE FAST stands for Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts down or is difficult to lift, this could be a sign of a stroke. Call 911 right away

2) Confusion or Trouble Speaking

Sudden confusion or trouble speaking can be a sign of a stroke. A person may have trouble understanding simple questions, finding the right words, or speaking clearly. Their speech may also sound slurred or difficult to understand.

Remember the “S” in BE FAST stands for Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If their speech is slurred, unusual, or difficult to understand, this could be a sign of a stroke. Do not wait for symptoms to improve. Call 911 right away.

3) Vision Problems

Sudden vision problems can be a sign of a stroke, even without other symptoms. This may include blurred or double vision or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. These changes can happen quickly and without warning.

Remember the “E” in BE FAST stands for Eyes. If someone suddenly has trouble seeing in one or both eyes, treat it as a medical emergency. Do not wait to see if the symptoms improve. Call 911 right away.

4) Difficulty Walking or Loss of Balance

A sudden loss of balance or coordination can be a sign of a stroke. A person may stumble, feel dizzy, or have trouble walking. These changes can happen suddenly and may seem unusual for the person.

Remember the “B” in BE FAST stands for Balance. If someone suddenly has trouble with balance or coordination, take it seriously. Do not wait for other symptoms to appear. Call 911 right away.

5) Severe, Sudden Headache

A sudden, severe headache that feels different from your usual headaches can be a warning sign of a stroke. The pain may come on quickly and may happen with other symptoms, such as confusion, vision changes, weakness, nausea, or vomiting.

A sudden, severe headache should not be ignored, even if other stroke symptoms are not present. If the headache comes on suddenly and is extremely painful or you think it may be a stroke, call 911 right away.

6) Facial Drooping

Facial drooping or numbness can be a sign of a stroke. One side of the face may droop or feel numb, making it difficult to smile evenly. This change can happen suddenly and may be one of the first signs someone notices.

Remember the “F” in BE FAST stands for Face. Ask the person to smile. If one side of their face droops or does not move as well as the other, this could be a sign of a stroke. Call 911 right away.

7) Sudden Trouble Understanding Others

Sudden confusion or trouble speaking can be a sign of a stroke. A person may have trouble understanding simple questions, following a conversation, finding the right words, or speaking clearly. Their speech may also sound slurred or difficult to understand.

Remember the “S” in BE FAST stands for Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If they have trouble speaking or understanding you, this could be a sign of a stroke. Do not wait for symptoms to improve. Call 911 right away.

What to Do While Waiting for Help

After calling 911, stay with the person and help them remain calm and comfortable while you wait for emergency responders. Do not give them food, water, or medication unless emergency medical professionals instruct you to, since a stroke can affect swallowing. Note when the symptoms first started, or the last time the person was known to be well, and share this information with emergency responders.

If the person becomes unconscious or stops breathing, follow the 911 dispatcher's instructions. Do not drive the person to the hospital unless emergency services tell you to. Emergency medical teams can begin evaluating and caring for the person on the way to the hospital and alert the hospital that a possible stroke patient is arriving.

​Stroke Care at Augusta Health

​At Augusta Health, our emergency care team is ready to respond when every minute matters. If you or someone around you has signs of a stroke, call 911 right away. Emergency medical teams can begin care on the way to the hospital and help connect you with the stroke care you need as quickly as possible.

Recognizing the warning signs and acting quickly can make an important difference in treatment and recovery. Remember to BE FAST—and call 911 at the first sign of a possible stroke. To learn more about stroke care and other services at Augusta Health, call 540-255-0344 or visit our website.