FAST - What Are Signs of a Stroke?

FAST: Key to Avoid Brain Damage Caused by Stroke

Stroke happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut-off. The brain requires oxygen to function properly. The blood carries oxygen so that when supply of blood is interrupted, brain cells begin to die. As a result, brain injury, disability, or death Stroke is a very serious and life threatening condition. It is an emergency that requires immediate medical intervention. The sooner a person receives treatment, the less damage is likely to occur.

There are three most common types of stroke: ischemic, hemorrhagic, and embolic. Ischemic stroke, more commonly known as atherosclerosis, occurs when there is a blockage of the blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain. Meanwhile, hemorrhagic stroke is a result of a weakened blood vessel that ruptures and bleeds into the brain. Lastly, embolic stroke happens when a blood clot forms somewhere else in the body and this clot travels to the brain through the bloodstream.

Symptoms of Stroke: FAST

According to many physical therapists and advisers to traumatic injury institutions, since a stroke is a medical emergency, it is important to know the symptoms of a stroke. The key word is FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, and Time).

• Face. When you suspect that a person is having a stroke, ask him to smile. Check whether the smile is asymmetrical or lop-sided. Take a look if his face has dropped on one side.

• Arms. Ask the person suspected of suffering from stroke to lift both arms. Check if he can lift it or if he can, whether he can keep them lifted. A person's arm tends to drift downward if this person is having a stroke.

• Speech. Determine if the person can talk properly. Persons suffering from stroke have slurred speech or are unable to talk. Try saying something like "the trees are green" and check if the person can repeat this.

• Time to call 911 if you observed any of the signs or symptoms as listed. Even if the symptoms go away, get the person to the hospital immediately.

A stroke can be life-changing and its effects can be long lasting. When someone has a stroke, recovery can be slow. It could take a long time. Many of us who have been around long have witnessed many people with strokes. We have seen their long way to recovery. The goal of most professionals who work in TBI facilities is to help the patients and makes sure that they regain the life that they used to live.