Spotting a Stroke

When someone is having a stroke, every minute counts. Acting fast could be the difference between life and death or permanent disability.

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when there is an interruption of blood flow to the brain. This interruption can be caused by a blocked artery (called an ischemic stroke) or by a burst blood vessel (called a hemorrhagic stroke). When blood isn’t reaching the brain, millions of brain cells die every minute.

The sooner someone having a stroke receives medical attention, the greater their chances of survival and recovery.

Recognizing a stroke

How can you recognize the signs of a stroke?

There is an easy acronym to help you spot the key signs of a stroke – and knowing it could save someone’s life.

Just remember B.E. F.A.S.T. use it if you suspect someone may be having a stroke:

Balance: Are they experiencing sudden loss of balance or coordination?

Eyes: Are they having difficulty focusing or are they experiencing double vision? Can they see clearly?

Face: Are they able to smile fully? Is their face drooping on one side?

Arms: Can they raise both arms or does one arm drop?

Speech: Are they able to speak? Is their speech slurred or strange?

Time. Call 999 immediately if you see any of these signs.

A stroke is a medical emergency. Early treatment can save lives and limit brain damage or prevent death.

Stroke can happen to anyone

Stroke risk increases with age, but it can affect people of all ages, including young adults. Often, it's younger family members who are the first to spot symptoms in older relatives. That’s why stroke education is important for everyone, not just those at higher risk.

Learn the signs of stroke and act fast, you could save a life.