HEALTH & WELLBEING: When Stroke Strikes Act F.A.S.T

A stroke is a ‘brain attack’ caused by a disturbance of the blood supply to the brain.

It's a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention, so recognising the signs of stroke and calling 999 for an ambulance is crucial.

You could save your own or someone else's life, or help limit the long-term effects of stroke, by learning to think and Act F.A.S.T. F.A.S.T. or Face-Arms-Speech-Time is easy to remember and will help you to recognise if you or someone else is having a stroke.

Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?

Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there?

Speech – is their speech slurred?

Time to call 999 if you see any single one of these signs of a stroke.

There are also other symptoms that may occasionally be due to stroke. They include:

  • Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes
  • Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body (including your leg)
  • Sudden memory loss or confusion
  • Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall, especially with any of the other symptoms

If you notice any single one of the signs of stroke, it is important to call 999. The faster you act, the better the chance of recovery.

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