How to Recognize the Warning Signs of a Stroke F.A.S.T.

How to Recognize the Warning Signs of a Stroke F.A.S.T.
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 800,000 people in the United States have a stroke every year. The statistics also reveal someone has a stroke every 40 seconds, and someone dies of a stroke every three and a half minutes. Strokes are among the five leading causes of death and a leading cause of disability among adults. In recognition of May being Stroke Awareness Month, Pegalis Law Group, LLC wants to shed light on how to spot the warning signs of a stroke. The American Stroke Association has put together the F.A.S.T. acronym to help you remember the most common signs of a stroke. Acting quickly and calling 911 for a suspected stroke could help you save a loved one’s life.
F – Facial Drooping
Is one side of the person’s face beginning to droop? Ask them to smile. Does their smile seem uneven to you? Facial drooping or numbness is one of the most common warning signs of a stroke.
A – Arm Weakness
Ask the person if they can raise both of their arms. If one of their arms drifts downward, they could be having a stroke. Arm or leg weakness on one side of the body is another telltale sign of a possible stroke.
S – Speech Difficulty
Is the person’s speech slurred or abnormal? A person suffering from a stroke will often have difficulty speaking. They may be unable to repeat even a simple phrase due to confusion or memory issues.
T – Time to Call 911
Other stroke symptoms include loss of balance or coordination, severe headache, dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, memory problems, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and numbness (usually on one side of the body). If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to call 911 immediately. Be sure to note the time when the symptoms began. A stroke victim’s chances of survival increase the sooner you call 911, and they have access to emergency medical treatment. First responders may begin life-saving treatment in the ambulance before the patient even gets to the ER. According to the CDC, patients seen within three hours of their initial stroke symptoms usually have fewer disabilities three months afterward than those who didn’t. Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke and acting F.A.S.T. saves lives!
A Few Helpful Stroke Prevention and Awareness Tips
Stroke symptoms will vary by individual, and undetected strokes without any warning signs are possible. Factors that put you at a higher risk of stroke include obesity, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Making healthier lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and getting plenty of exercise, can help you lower your risk of having a stroke. If you have diabetes or a heart condition, follow your doctor’s advice carefully and be sure to take your medications as prescribed. Working with your healthcare team can help you prevent or treat certain chronic medical conditions that contribute to strokes.
Focused on Universal Patient Safety Measures for Nearly 50 Years
Pegalis Law Group, LLC is a New York-based personal injury and medical malpractice law firm. For nearly 50 years, our law firm has been committed to creating public awareness about universal patient safety and healthcare issues. Please visit our website and follow us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to receive additional insights to remain proactive about your family’s healthcare.