Signs of stroke - FAST
A stroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect that you or someone else is having a stroke, phone 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance.
A stroke happens when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted. Most strokes occur when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the brain. Some strokes are caused by bleeding in or around the brain from a burst blood vessel.
What are the symptoms of stroke?
- Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg on one side of the body
- Sudden loss or blurring of vision, in one or both eyes
- Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding spoken language
- Sudden confusion
- Sudden or severe headache with no apparent cause
- Dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall, especially with any of the other signs
Act FAST if you suspect a stroke
- Face: Can the person smile? Has their face fallen on one side?
- Arms: Can the person raise both arms and keep them there?
- Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred?
- Time: If you see any of these three signs, it's time to call 999