Consumer Health: Do you know the warning signs of stroke?

By
Laurel Kelly

Consumer Health: Do you know the warning signs of stroke?

May 3, 2022

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, which makes this a good time to learn about the warning signs of stroke and the need for prompt treatment.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. and a major cause of serious disability for adults. More than 795,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Stroke risk increases with age, especially after 55, but strokes can occur at any age.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes.

A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial. Early action can reduce brain damage and other complications. If you or someone you know is experiencing a stroke, you should call 911 and seek emergency medical care right away.

To recognize the signs of stroke, remember the acronym FAST:

Face
Does the face droop on one side when the person tries to smile?
Arms
Is one arm lower when the person tries to raise both arms?
Speech
Can the person repeat a simple sentence? Is speech slurred or hard to understand?
Time
During a stroke, every minute counts. If you observe any of these signs, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Watch: The Mayo Clinic Minute

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Learn more about strokes from Dr. Robert Brown Jr., a neurologist at Mayo Clinic.

Connect with others talking about stroke and recovery in the Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases support group on Mayo Clinic Connect, an online patient community moderated by Mayo Clinic.