Signs of stroke FAST
Stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Without blood, brain cells can be damaged or die. Knowing the symptoms of stroke and getting emergency medical attention is essential.
Stroke is a complex medical issue. But there are ways to significantly reduce its impact. Recognizing the signs of stroke early, treating it as a medical emergency, with admission to a specialized stroke unit, and access to the best professional care can substantially improve outcomes.
The main symptoms of stroke can be remembered and checked with the word FAST.
Face – is the face drooping to one one side
Arms – is there a weakness in one arm
Speech – is speech slurred or garbled
Time – if these symptoms are present it is time to call emergency services
COVID 19 and FAST stroke treatment
The World Stroke Organization is leading the global effort to ensure that the gains that have been made in stroke awareness and treatment over the past 20 years aren't lost as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic. We are supporting our members to engage with goverment health departments and mobilising our clinician, stroke survivor, caregiver and community networks to help raise awareness of stroke symptoms and the relative safety of stroke treatment.
FAST Heroes
25 Sep 2019FAST Stroke Heroes is a schools-based campaign that works to raise awareness of the key symptoms of stroke
Find out moreStroke can happen at any age and children can be affected, Stroke in children can present differently than how it appears in adults and can mimic other conditions, because it is relatively rare stroke can also be overlooked in children. If you spot the following signs seek emergency medical treatment and say the word 'stroke'. Where possible access to a paediatric consultant with neurological expertise improves accuracy of diagnosis.
- speech disturbance
- hemiparesis or weakness on one side
- facial drooping
- new-onset of seizures
- mental status changes
- loss of coordination
- dizziness
- loss of consciousness
- severe headache
- vomiting
- visual disturbances
- high fever
As with all strokes, it is important to save #Precioustime. Fast access to treatment can save lives and reduce disability.
Know the signs of stroke
Our partners and sponsors
We are grateful to our sponsors who support our campaigning work, helping us to deliver a world free from stroke.
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