A stroke is a serious medical illness that can endanger a person’s life, and it requires immediate medical intervention. When something cuts the blood supply to the brain, brain cells die and stroke happens. If not treated promptly, a stroke can result in long-term impairment or even death. Diagnosing and treating a stroke quickly increases the chances of recovery. This is why it is essential to understand and remember the FAST acronym.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs as a result of oxygen and nutrient deprivation to a part of the brain. It is a medical condition that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by a blocked or burst blood vessel. As a result, brain cells begin to die within leading to chronic malfunction of the nerves. There are two main types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
Recognizing the Signs of Stroke
The signs of stroke can vary depending on the area of the brain affected. Although. there are some common symptoms to look out for which include:
- Face Drooping: Face drooping is a common sign of a stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA). It occurs when one side of the face loses its ability to move and appears to droop, sag or become numb. This happens because the nerves that control the facial muscles are affected due to the interruption of blood flow to the brain. To check for this symptom, ask the person to smile and observe whether one side of their face appears to droop.
- Arm Weakness: Arm weakness is a common symptom of a stroke, which occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. If one arm is weak or numb, there is difficulty lifting or moving it, or tingling or pins and needles in the arm, it could be a sign of a stroke. This weakness can occur on either one or both sides of the body. You can check for this symptom by asking the person to raise both arms and observing whether one arm drifts downwards.
- Speech Difficulty: Speech difficulty can take different forms, including slurred speech, difficulty forming words, and difficulty understanding language. When someone experiences speech difficulty, it is often a sign that the part of the brain responsible for speech and language has been affected by the stroke. This can be due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients reaching the brain cells in that area, causing them to become damaged or die. To test for this symptom you can ask to repeat a simple sentence, such as “The sky is blue,” and see if they have trouble speaking or understanding.
- Time to Call for help: After noticing all of these symptoms you need to scream for help. Time is critical in treating a stroke, the longer a person goes without medical treatment, the greater the risk of long-term damage or disability. Therefore, it is crucial to act quickly and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
FAST Acronym
The acronym FAST has been developed to help remember the signs of stroke. It stands for:
F – Face drooping: Ask the person to smile and see if one side of the face droops.
A – Arm weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one arm drifts downwards.
S – Speech difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, such as “The sky is blue,”. See if they have trouble speaking or understanding.
T – Time to call for help: If you notice any of these symptoms, call for medical attention.
Knowing the FAST acronym will help you spot stroke symptoms promptly and get the person the assistance they require.
Other Signs of Stroke
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs, especially on one side of the body
- Confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding others.
- If you notice any of these symptoms, call for help immediately.
We Offer Stroke Therapeutic Services
Unique Physioclinic offers stroke therapeutic services to help patients who have stroke, or who are at risk of having one. These services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation to help patients regain strength, mobility, and independence. Each patient receives customized courses of treatment that takes into account their medical background, way of life, and recovery objectives. We also provide education and assistance to help patients and their families understand stroke, its effects, and management.