STROKE is an Emergency ! Every minute counts ... B . E . F . A . S . T .!
Know the signs and symptoms of a stroke :
BALANCE
EYE
FACE
ARM
SPEECH
TIME
Sudden trouble walking , dizziness , loss of balance or coordination
Sudden onset of blurred or double vision , or loss of vision in one eye
Facial droop Uneven smile
Ask the person to smile . Is the person ’ s smile uneven or lopsided ?
Arm numbness Arm weakness
Ask the person to raise both arms . Does one arm drift downward ?
Slurred speech Difficulty speaking or understanding
Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence . Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand ?
If you have any of these symptoms or see someone else having them , BEFAST and call 9-1-1 immediately ! Treating a stroke quickly can reduce damage to the brain .
Note the time when the symptoms first appear . This will help healthcare providers determine the best treatment .
Have the ambulance go to the nearest certified stroke center .
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