12 - Time is everything...In Case Someone You Know Has A Stroke

While I was away on vacation, I received the unfortunate news that my sister suffered a stroke. Although hers differed from mine—it affected the right side of her brain—she initially decided to wait before seeking help. Thankfully, our eldest sister happened to call her on Friday, August 20, 2021, and persuaded her to go to the hospital the following day, where the stroke was confirmed.

This experience is a sobering reminder that time is the most critical factor in stroke treatment. Recognizing the signs and acting quickly can save lives and improve recovery outcomes.

Remember: Act F.A.S.T.

The acronym F.A.S.T. provides a simple way to recognize and respond to the early signs of a stroke:

• F — Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

• A — Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

• S — Speech: Ask them to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?

• T — Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Note the time when symptoms first appear—this information is vital for determining the best course of treatment. Do not drive the person to the hospital yourself. Always call an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment en route.

15 Warning Signs of a Stroke

Recognizing the early and varied symptoms of stroke can help you or a loved one get prompt medical attention. Here are 15 common signs:

1. Loss of Balance: Trouble walking, unsteadiness, or frequent falls.

2. Weakness: Sudden loss of strength, especially in the face, arm, or leg—often on one side of the body.

3. Facial Paralysis: One side of the face may droop. Ask the person to smile and check for symmetry.

4. Difficulty Speaking: Slurred or incoherent speech, or trouble forming sentences.

5. Impaired Vision: Blurred or double vision, or sudden vision loss.

6. Lack of Understanding: Trouble comprehending spoken language or instructions.

7. Severe Headache: A sudden, intense headache, often described as the worst of one’s life.

8. Loss of Sensation: Numbness or tingling, particularly on one side of the body.

9. Dizziness: A spinning sensation, loss of coordination, or nausea.

10. Lack of Reflexes: Difficulty swallowing or sudden changes in reflex responses.

11. Confusion: Disorientation or sudden cognitive changes.

12. Trouble Reading: Inability to comprehend written words or form coherent thoughts.

13. Numbness: Especially on one side of the body—opposite the affected side of the brain.

14. Hiccups: An unusual symptom that more commonly affects women during a stroke.

15. Altered Mental Status: Drowsiness, hallucinations, agitation, or unresponsiveness.

Final Thoughts

If you or someone you’re with exhibits any of these symptoms—even if they seem mild or temporary—do not wait. Call 9-1-1 immediately. Early medical intervention significantly increases the chance of recovery and reduces the risk of long-term disability.

Stroke awareness saves lives. Know the signs. Act fast.