Learn The F.A.S.T. Signs And 10 Symptoms Of Stroke
Over-React To Stroke · National Stroke Association · American Stroke Foundation · YoungStroke.org · Donate
Stroke is a brain attack. It occurs when blood vessels in the brain (arteries) are blocked or burst, preventing the brain from getting the necessary blood supply.
Strokes can kill brain cells, inflicting long-term disability, permanent damage and even death: That’s why it is important to call 911 immediately the moment you suspect stroke.
An Ischemic stroke is when blood flow through an artery is blocked, which accounts for 87% of all strokes. And a Hemorrhagic stroke is when an artery is ruptured, causing swelling, pressure, and damage to the brain.
F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember and identify the most common symptoms of a stroke.
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, make note of the time, and call 9-1-1 immediately.
If the following symptoms or a combination of them suddenly appear out of the ordinary, act immediately as they may also be a sign of stroke:
Confusion | Difficulty Understanding
Dizziness | Loss of Balance
Numbness | Severe Headache
Trouble Speaking | Trouble Walking
Vision Changes | Weakness
For the past 35 years, the National Stroke Association (NSA) has helped countless patients, families, and caregivers. To do even more, the NSA board of directors has decided that the best opportunity for continued success and growth is to fold our efforts into those of the American Stroke Association (ASA), a division of the American Heart Association (AHA). This will ensure that our combined resources can work harder to reduce the burden which strokes take upon our nation.