Published: May 10, 2023
Learn the signs of a stroke so you can act FAST
Years ago, men and women over age 50 were getting strokes. But today, with a rise in obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, there is a rise in younger adults having strokes.
Can you recognize if your loved one is having a stroke? Here are the common signs to watch for, including:
• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech.
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
Think someone is having a stroke? Act F.A.S.T. and do the following test:
F—Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A—Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S—Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the speech slurred or strange?
T—Time: If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away.
Listen to iHeart Radio's preventing stroke interview with WHA's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Khuram Arif.
To read more on how to lower your risk of stroke, visit the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention on Know Your Risks for Stroke. In addition, WHA has a wealth of information on keeping your heart healthy at mywha.org/hearthealth.
Follow the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association on social media for the latest heart healthy tips, news and information for you and your family.