Stroke Warning Signs

If you are experiencing symptoms, call 911.

Know the Signs

A stroke can happen to anyone at any time, and few Americans are aware of the common symptoms.

The acronym ‘FAST’ is used to remind people of what to look for in the case of a stroke:

  • F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
  • A – Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
  • S – Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
  • T – Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Learning the signs–and acting FAST when they occur–could save your life or the life of a loved one. (To learn more about stroke signs and symptoms, click here.)

Common stroke symptoms include:

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

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