When it comes to stroke, every second counts. Nearly 2 million brain cells die each minute a stroke remains untreated! This is why rapid access to medical treatment often times make the difference between full recovery and permanent disability. Rapid treatment allow stroke patients to receive treatment options such as the clot busting drug tPA and highly-recommended stent retrievers for the allotted time window. Studies show that patients who receive treatment fast have a higher chance at full recovery and preventing permanent disability.
The easiest way to remember the warning signs of a stroke is to think F.A.S.T. (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 9-1-1). The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association shared this fun song to help you memorize the acronym.
Stroke.org also shared the following symptoms of a stroke:
- 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 ye or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
Want more info about strokes? Read the “5 Things to Know About Strokes” and then test your stroke warning signs knowledge by taking the Stroke Hero-Super Power Quiz!
National Stroke Association (n.d.) “Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke.” Retrieved May 23, 2016 from www.stroke.org/understand-stroke/recognizing-stroke/signs-and-symptoms-stroke
American Stroke Association (n.d.) “Stroke Warning Signs and Symptoms.” Retrived May 23, 2016 from www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/WarningSigns/Stroke-Warning-Signs-and-Symptoms_UCM_308528_SubHomePage.jsp