A stroke happens when blood cannot reach a part of the brain, which deprives brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. “Recognizing the signs and immediately calling emergency services increases the chances of a successful recovery,” says Jehad Zakaria, MD, Riverside Neurosurgeon.

F.A.S.T. is a simple way to remember the main symptoms of a stroke. These symptoms can happen suddenly.

F.A.S.T. stands for:

Face drooping.
Ask the person to smile. Look for drooping on one side of the face.

Arm weakness.
Ask the person to raise both arms to the same height. One arm may drift downward or not raise at all.

Speech.
Ask the person to speak. Listen for slurred or incomprehensible speech.

Time to call 911.
When activating emergency medical services, note the time symptoms started and other possible signs
of stroke.

Other symptoms of stroke may include:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Sudden change of consciousness, such as fainting, confusion or seizures.
• Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• Sudden, severe headache.
• Sudden vision impairments, such as double vision.
• Sudden trouble understanding simple statements.

A stroke occurs every 40 seconds in the U.S. Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke and calling 911 immediately can make a significant difference in treatment options and recovery outcomes.

“Riverside is proud to be the only hospital in the area to provide advanced stroke care, including thrombectomy capabilities, right here in our community,” says Dr. Zakaria. “When a stroke strikes, lost time can mean lost brain function, so being able to provide brain-saving treatment as soon as possible is key.”

In the event of a stroke, make sure you or a loved one is taken to Riverside’s Emergency Department. To learn more about strokes and what can help prevent them, click here.