Neurology

Stroke — Act FAST

2025-08-13 • Updated 2025-09-13

Intro

With stroke, time = brain. Every minute without treatment leads to more brain cells lost. Quick recognition and action greatly improve survival and recovery.

Key Points

• Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked (ischemic) or a vessel bursts (hemorrhagic).
• The FAST test is the simplest way to recognize stroke symptoms.
• Call emergency services immediately — do not wait.
• Early treatment with clot-busting drugs or thrombectomy can prevent long-term disability.
• A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a “mini-stroke” and a red flag for a major stroke soon after.

FAST Test

• F — Face: drooping or uneven smile
• A — Arm: weakness, one arm drifts down
• S — Speech: slurred, strange, or hard to understand
• T — Time: call emergency services immediately

Other Warning Signs

• Sudden vision loss or double vision
• Sudden severe headache, especially with neck stiffness
• Sudden confusion, dizziness, or balance problems
• Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body

What to Do

• Call emergency services — do not drive yourself.
• Note the time symptoms started (crucial for treatment decisions).
• Do not give aspirin unless instructed (dangerous if hemorrhagic stroke).
• Stay with the person, keep them safe, and ensure the airway is clear.

After a TIA (“Mini-Stroke”)

• Symptoms may resolve in minutes, but the risk of a major stroke is high.
• Urgent medical evaluation is required, even if the person feels better.

FAQ

Q: Can strokes happen in younger people?
A: Yes. While more common with age, strokes can occur at any age, especially with risk factors (high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking).

Q: How fast should I act?
A: Immediately — stroke treatments are most effective within the first 3–4.5 hours of symptom onset.

Q: Is a severe headache always a stroke?
A: No, but a sudden “worst-ever” headache can be a sign of hemorrhagic stroke. Always treat as urgent.

Further Reading

• American Stroke Association — Stroke Warning Signs
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
• NHS — Stroke and TIA

Related Guides

• Emergencies — Guide Hub
• Chest Pain: When to Call 911 vs Wait for a Doctor
• CPR — First Aid Guide
• Severe Bleeding — First Aid

References

Campbell, B.C.V., & Khatri, P. (2020). Stroke. The Lancet, 396(10244), 129–142.

⚠️ Educational only; not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always call emergency services immediately if stroke is suspected.

• #stroke
• #neurology
• #emergency
• #FAST test
• #brain health