Signs & Symptoms of a Stroke
February 28 2018Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke can potentially save your life. There are four vital steps you can take to ensure you recognise if you are having a stroke and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
F.A.S.T
FAST is a test encouraged for you to use if you think either you or someone around you is suffering a stroke. Knowing these simple four steps could save your life.
FACE: One of the common signs and symptoms of having a stroke is drooping of one side of the face.
ARMS: Usually one or both arms will not lift.
SPEECH: Slurred or confused speech is another common stroke symptom.
TIME: Time is extremely crucial when suffering a stroke. Call 000 immediately and wait for medical attention to arrive.
There are other signs of stroke to be aware of which include:
- Paralysis or clumsiness of the face, arm or leg (one or both sides)
- Difficulty in speaking or understanding
- A loss of balance or unexplained falling, dizziness
- Sudden decrease or blurred vision in either one or both eyes, double vision or even loss of vision altogether
- Severe headache
- Difficulty in swallowing
Suffering a stroke is always considered a medical emergency and the longer it remains untreated, the greater risk of brain damage.