Stroke symptoms and signs

The signs and symptoms of a stroke depend on the area of the brain affected. Typically, symptoms come on suddenly - over seconds to minutes. 

Common stroke symptoms and signs

• Sudden headache
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Confusion or trouble understanding speech
• Vision loss or blurry vision in one or both eyes 
• Weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg
• Dizziness, loss of balance, lack of coordination

F.A.S.T.

FAST is an acronym used to rapidly check for common signs of stroke.

Face – has one side of the person's mouth or face drooped?  
Arm – can the person lift both their arms?
Speech – is the person's speech slurred or strange? 
Time – if the person shows any of the above signs, it's time to seek medical help.