Understanding Stroke Symptoms: Recognize the Signs and Act Fast

A stroke can occur suddenly, and its impact can be severe. Understanding the warning signs and acting quickly can mean the difference between life and death, or a full recovery and long-term disability. Recognizing stroke symptoms early is essential, as immediate treatment is critical for minimizing brain damage and improving recovery outcomes.

Key Stroke Symptoms to Know

To help you quickly identify a stroke, medical professionals recommend using the acronym BE FAST, which highlights the most common stroke symptoms:

• B – Balance: Sudden dizziness, loss of coordination, or trouble walking.
• E – Eyes: Blurred or double vision, or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• F – Face Drooping: One side of the face droops or feels numb. Ask the person to smile—if one side droops, it could indicate a stroke.
• A – Arm Weakness: Weakness or numbness in one arm. Ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downward, it may be a sign of a stroke.
• S – Speech Difficulty: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking clearly. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If they struggle, it could be a stroke.
• T – Time to Call 911: If any of these symptoms appear, it’s time to call 911 immediately. Don’t wait for the symptoms to go away, as early treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery.

BENEFITS OF HOME HEALTH SERVICES

Why Time is Critical for Stroke Treatment

When someone is having a stroke, every minute counts. The faster the person receives medical care, the better the outcome. For ischemic strokes (the most common type, caused by a blood clot), treatments like clot-busting drugs are most effective if given within the first few hours of symptoms appearing. For hemorrhagic strokes (caused by bleeding in the brain), early intervention can help control bleeding and reduce brain pressure.

Mini Strokes and TIAs as Warning Signs

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often called a “mini stroke,” presents with similar symptoms to a full stroke but doesn’t cause permanent damage. However, TIAs should never be ignored. They often last only a few minutes to hours, but they signal that a full stroke could be imminent. Those who experience a TIA are at a much higher risk of having a major stroke, particularly within the first 48 hours. Immediate medical evaluation is essential to prevent a future stroke.

If you or someone around you is experiencing any of the signs of a stroke, don’t wait—call 911 right away. The quicker emergency responders can begin treatment, the better the chances of minimizing brain damage and improving recovery. Avoid driving the person to the hospital yourself, as paramedics can start life-saving care en route. At Lane Regional Medical Center, our Emergency Department is fully equipped to provide immediate care for stroke patients. If you or a loved one shows signs of a stroke, don’t hesitate—get help immediately.