Oct. 29 is World Stroke Day, a time to bring awareness to this serious condition and raise discussion about the signs and symptoms of a stroke. A stroke occurs when there is a blockage or bleed in your blood vessels that either stops or slows blood supply to your brain. This results in a lack of oxygen and nutrients in the brain, leading to brain cells dying.
Globally, one in four individuals over the age of 25 will develop a stroke in their lifetime. This staggering number is why it’s so important to know the signs and symptoms of a stroke to be able to help loved ones in need so they can get the care they require before irreversible damage is done.
An easy way to remember what to look out for is by using the acronym F.A.S.T.:
F = Face dropping
A = Arm weakness
S = Speech Difficulty
T = Time to call 911
Additional Signs of a Stroke:
- Numbness or weakness of the face, arms or legs, especially on one side of the body
- Confusion, trouble speaking
- Change in vision in one or both eyes
- Loss of balance and dizziness
Sources:
“Learn About Stroke,” world-stroke.org, accessed Aug. 31, 2022.
“Stroke Symptoms,” stroke.org, accessed Sept. 1, 2022.