Learn the Signs of Stroke

Medical Center Health System wants you to learn the signs of stroke and Act FAST! Learn the warning signs of stroke listed below. If you spot them, call 911 right away. Responding quickly can be the difference between recovery and disability, or even death.

Learn the acronym F.A.S.T. for stroke:

• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call 911 if you see any of these symptoms.

Symptoms can include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the 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, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

Did You Know?

• Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. Stroke is the number two cause of death worldwide.
• In the U.S., someone has a stroke every forty (40) seconds and someone dies from one every four (4) minutes.
• Studies show stroke patients arriving by ambulance are more likely to receive treatment in the recommend amount of time. Nothing is more important than a life. Call 911 at the first sign of stroke.

Today, stroke is more treatable than ever, but time is critical. Know the signs and act fast. A few seconds could save a life, possibly your own.