What Should You Do If You Think Someone May Be Having a Stroke?
You’ve met for coffee and a catch-up, one of those girlfriend gabfests about jobs-kids-guys-great books-bad movies-vacation plans. You’re distracted trying decide between the relative evils of sweet’N low vs. sugar. Suddenly you notice that your friend’s story about her weekend from hell in Las Vegas isn’t making much sense. Her speech seems slurred, she’s stumbling over words, seems confused and–you can’t quite put your finger on it– but there’s something odd about the way she looks.
Maybe she’s just tired, you think. Or maybe not. What should you do?
You should remember that slurred speech and confusion could be signs of a stroke.
Then Use the F.A.S.T. test to recognize and respond to stroke symptoms:
F = FACE Ask your friend to smile. Does one side of her face droop?
A = ARMS Ask her to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S = SPEECH Ask her to repeat a simple sentence. Does her speech sound slurred or strange?
T = TIME If you observe any of these signs, don’t delay. Make a note of the time (this will be important later).
Then call 9-1-1 or get to her the nearest stroke center or hospital.
May is Stroke Awareness Month. Learn something new today and share it with friends and family.
