Stroke Warning Signs

Know the warning signs of a stroke, this may be the difference between recovery and disability. Learn to think and B.E.F.A.S.T.
1
Balance unsteady

Does the person have a sudden loss of balance, coordination or a severe headache.

2
Eyesight Blurry

Is the person experiencing double or blurry vision, or are they unable to see out of one eye?

3
Face Drooping

Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile is it an even smile.

4
Arm Weakness

Is one arm weak of numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

5
Speech

Is speech slurred or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat sentence. “A hummingbird has neon colors”

6
Time to call 911

If someone shows any of these symptoms call 9-1-1. Know the time the symptoms started.

B – Balance unsteady
E – Eyesight blurry
F – Face drooping
A – Arm weakness
S – Speech difficulty
T – Time to call 911

 

Additional Symptoms of Stroke

Sometimes a Stroke Can Happen Gradually, Here Are a Few Additional Warning Signs.
1

Sudden Numbness

2

Sudden Confusion

3

Sudden Trouble Seeing

4

Sudden Trouble Walking

5

Sudden Severe Headache

6

Sudden Change In Behavior

Steps You Can Take That May Prevent a Stroke

  1. Eat Healthy
  2. Lose Weight
  3. Stop Smoking
  4. Stay Active
  5. Control Cholesterol
  6. Monitor Blood Pressure
  7. Manage Blood  Sugar

Know Your Numbers

Everyone is different. Know Your Numbers and manage these three critical factors with your doctor.

  1. Blood Pressure
  2. Cholesterol
  3. Blood Sugar

After You Call 9-1-1

A Few Quick Tips After You Call for Help

Tip #1

Stay with the person suffering, for their safety

Tip #2

Look at a clock to note the time

Tip #3

Collect the list or bottles of medicine the person takes

Tip #4

Carefully watch for all signs and mentally note them

Getting Home From The Hospital

Be sure you have an advocate who is accountable and can be that extra set of eyes, hands and legs for you. Make sure your environment is safe and comfortable. Most accidents occur in the bathroom and kitchen so pay special attention to these areas.

Resources to keep you moving forward on your stroke journey

Stroke Stories

Read how stroke survivors tackle real world challenges and persevere. They share their stories and lessons learned—inspiring everyone who reads them.

B.E.F.A.S.T.

Learn to recognize the warning signs of a stroke so you can spot them early and help a friend or family member—you never know when someone might suffer a stroke.

Booklets

Watch our booklets open up on the screen in front of you and read them for free. We wrote booklets for survivors, therapists, family and friends—something for everyone.

Technology

Discover some of the newest technology for stroke rehabilitation that can be used during your therapy sessions or at home with family and friends.