What to Look for With Strokes

The National Stroke Association says the following are symptoms of a stroke:

Sudden numbness or weakness in your 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 or loss of balance;

Sudden severe headache for no reason.

In the United States, about 185,000 people die from a stroke every year. Knowing the warnings signs is an important factor in survival and recovery.

If you are with someone who is having a stroke, you need to follow the F.A.S.T. method.

Face: Does one side of the face droop? Can the person smile?

Arms: Can the person raise both arms equally?

Speech: Can the person repeat a simple phrase without slurred or strange speech?

Time: Call 9-1-1 quickly if you see any of these signs.

To learn more about strokes and how to prevent them, go to the National Stroke Association.