Stroke Symptoms
Experiencing stroke symptoms? Call 9-1-1 immediately!
B.E. F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of stroke. When you can spot the signs, you'll know that you need to call 9-1-1 for help right away.
B.E. F.A.S.T. is:
Balance loss – Does the person have a sudden loss of balance?
Eyesight changes – Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?
Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?
Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a sentence like "The sky is blue." Is it repeated correctly?
Time to call 9-1-1 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.
Other Stroke Symptoms
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- Sudden confusion
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking or loss of balance
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
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Learn more stroke signs and symptoms.
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Stroke Education
At Saint Mary's Regional Health System, we are dedicated to educating our community about stroke prevention and treatment. We offer engaging presentations and educational sessions for all ages and groups.
For more information, contact our stroke facilitator, Tim Tanner, at tim.tanner@saintmarysregional.com or 479.964.5311.
Additional Resources
Manage your health with the Heart & Stroke Helper app
Click below to download the Heart & Stroke Helper app from the American Stroke Association to help manage your health all in one place with features that allow you to track health numbers, manage medications, receive trusted information about stroke and connect with others for inspiration.
Survive, Don't Drive – Call 9-1-1
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. EMS staff are trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.