Stroke is an emergency
A stroke can occur when a brain artery is blocked or when a vessel ruptures. Time matters in both situations, and imaging is needed to identify the type.
Even if symptoms disappear within minutes, urgent evaluation is still necessary.
Remember B.E. F.A.S.T.
The American Stroke Association groups common warning signs. If any one appears, call 911.
- Balance: sudden loss of balance or coordination.
- Eyes: a sudden change in vision.
- Face: one side droops or feels numb.
- Arm: weakness or numbness in one arm.
- Speech: slurred, unusual or hard-to-understand speech.
- Time: note when symptoms began and call 911.
What not to do
Do not wait for symptoms to improve, do not drive yourself and do not delay care while looking for a specific clinic.