Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. [archived link], but many people don’t know the common warning signs. As World Stroke Day approaches, learn the signs of stroke and know when to act F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech, Time).
A stroke [archived link] happens when blood supply to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. It’s a serious medical emergency, and every minute matters when it comes to stroke. Taking quick action can save a life and help prevent long-term complications. The American Stroke Association suggests using F.A.S.T. as a simple way to remember the common signs and how to respond:
🔴 Face: Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?
🔴 Arms: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
🔴 Speech: Is speech slurred?
🔴 Time: Stroke is an emergency. Call 911 immediately. Note the time when any of the symptoms first appear.
There are some other symptoms that come on suddenly and could signal a stroke.
Stroke can happen at any age. While most strokes occur in older adults, strokes are increasing in younger people . Public health experts suspect this is because more young adults have stroke risk factors [archived link] like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
As World Stroke Day (October 29) approaches, learn the signs and share this life-saving reminder with your loved ones.
At Those Nerdy Girls, we believe knowledge is power. Join us to help spread it.
Additional Stroke Resources:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke – Know Stroke [archived link]
American Stroke Association – Interactive F.A.S.T. Experience
