World Stroke Day: How to Recognise the Signs of a Stroke and Act FAST
A stroke can happen suddenly and affect anyone, regardless of age. Knowing how to recognise the warning signs and responding quickly could save someone’s life and reduce the risk of long-term disability.
As we mark World Stroke Day, it is important to raise awareness about stroke symptoms, understand what to do in an emergency and encourage friends and family to learn how to Act FAST.
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Without an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients, brain cells can begin to die within minutes.
Recognising the symptoms early and getting emergency medical attention immediately can make a significant difference.
What Are the Main Warning Signs of a Stroke?
One of the easiest ways to remember the common signs of a stroke is the FAST method.
FAST stands for Face, Arms, Speech and Time.
1. Face – Has Their Face Fallen on One Side?
Ask the person to smile.
Does one side of their face appear droopy? Is their smile uneven, or does one side of their mouth or eye appear to have fallen?
Facial weakness or drooping can be an important warning sign of a stroke.
2. Arms – Can They Raise Both Arms?
Ask the person to raise both arms and keep them raised.
Does one arm drift downwards? Are they unable to lift one arm or experiencing sudden weakness or numbness?
Weakness in one arm or one side of the body may indicate a stroke.
3. Speech – Is Their Speech Slurred?
Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
Is their speech slurred, unclear or unusual? Are they struggling to find the right words or having difficulty understanding what you are saying?
Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech is another major warning sign.
4. Time – Call 999 Immediately
If you notice even ONE of these symptoms, call 999 immediately.
Do not wait to see whether the symptoms disappear. Do not attempt to drive the person to hospital yourself.
Tell the emergency operator that you suspect a stroke and explain the symptoms.
If possible, note the time the symptoms started or when the person was last known to be well. This information can help medical professionals make important treatment decisions.
Other Possible Symptoms of a Stroke
Although FAST covers the most recognised warning signs, a stroke can also cause other sudden symptoms, including:
- Sudden loss or blurring of vision in one or both eyes.
- Sudden dizziness or loss of balance.
- Difficulty walking or coordinating movements.
- Sudden severe headache without an obvious cause.
- Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding others.
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body.
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms. If you suspect a stroke, seek emergency medical help immediately, even if the symptoms do not match every part of FAST.
What Should You Do If Someone Is Having a Stroke?
Knowing what to do in an emergency is just as important as recognising the symptoms.
If someone shows signs of a stroke:
- Call 999 immediately.
- Explain that you suspect the person is having a stroke.
- Note the time their symptoms started or when they were last well.
- Keep them comfortable and stay with them while waiting for help.
- Follow the emergency operator’s instructions.
- Do not give them food, drinks or medication unless instructed by a medical professional.
Remember, every minute matters when someone is experiencing a stroke.
Can Stroke Symptoms Disappear?
Yes. Sometimes stroke-like symptoms disappear after a short period. This may be a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), often called a mini-stroke.
A TIA happens when blood flow to part of the brain is temporarily interrupted. Although symptoms may disappear, a TIA is a serious warning that a full stroke could occur.
Never ignore symptoms simply because the person appears to have recovered. Call 999 if you suspect a stroke or TIA.
Why Is Stroke Awareness Important?
Stroke can have life-changing consequences for individuals, families and communities.
Early recognition and emergency treatment can improve the chances of survival and recovery. Unfortunately, some people delay seeking help because they do not recognise the symptoms or assume the person will get better.
This is why stroke awareness matters.
Whether you live in the UK, Nigeria or elsewhere, understanding the warning signs can help you respond confidently when someone needs urgent medical attention.
Share the FAST Message and Help Save a Life
This World Stroke Day, take a moment to learn the FAST method and share it with your friends, relatives, colleagues and community.
You never know when the knowledge could help someone close to you.
Remember:
- FACE – Has their face fallen on one side?
- ARMS – Can they raise both arms?
- SPEECH – Is their speech slurred or unusual?
- TIME – Call 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Recognising the signs of a stroke could save a life. Don’t wait. Act FAST!
Stay informed, stay aware and help spread the message.
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