Learning to B.E. F.A.S.T. Can Save Lives

May is American Stroke Month. Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age. Stroke is the #4 cause of death in the U.S. and a leading cause of disability. Recognizing the warning signs of stroke can help you take action in the moments that matter.

Learn the signs of stroke and how to lower the risk for you and your loved ones. 91% of stroke patients who received treatment within 150 minutes of their first symptoms recovered with little or no disability. Learning to B.E. F.A.S.T. can save lives:

B = Balance Loss
Is there a sudden loss of balance or coordination? Is the person having trouble walking or experiencing dizziness?

E = Eye (Vision) Changes
Are there sudden changes in vision? Ask the person if they are experiencing blurred vision, double vision, or loss of sight in one or both eyes.

F = Face Drooping
Does one side of the face droop, or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?

A = Arm Weakness
Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S = Speech Difficulty
Is speech slurred or difficult to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.

T = Time to Call 911
If you have any of these symptoms or see someone else having them, call 911 immediately!

Remember: stroke is largely treatable. It’s a matter of getting the right treatment at the right time, right away. Remember the stroke warning signs: B.E. F.A.S.T.

Find additional information and resources at stroke.org.