Sep 26, 2006

FAST Test for Stroke

A stroke is a medical emergency and should not be taken lightly or the symptoms ignored. If you experience these symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately. Rapid diagnosis and treatment is essential to obtain the best outcomes.

The FAST test is similar to the STR Test.

  • F=FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the mouth or face droop?
  • A=ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward or can't be raised?
  • S=Speech: Ask the person to repeat a sentence. Can they repeat it correctly? Do they slur the words?
  • T=TIME: If the person exhibits any problems with these it's time to call for emergency help.

If you suffer any of these symptoms, or the ones listed below,get immediate medical attention!

  • A sudden severe headache without apparent reason
  • Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arms, legs, or one whole side of the body
  • Sudden loss or dimness of vision especially if it's only in one eye
  • Sudden loss of balance, unsteady gait, unexplained dizziness
  • Sudden confusion, slurred speech, or difficulty swallowing
  • Sudden loss of consciousnes