While we usually associate having a stroke with someone who is older or even elderly, the truth is that stokes can happen in someone of almost any age. In fact, there are more and more strokes occurring in people who are between the ages of 20 and 45 years of age, according to a recent article in Woman’s Day Magazine. Do you know how to recognize the signs of a stroke.
The Woman’s Day article went on to describe an easy way to recognize if you or someone else is having a stroke. This is so important, because getting help right away can reduce the damage done to the brain. It could really make a big difference.
There is an easy acronym you can use to remember what the signs of a stroke look like. Apply these guidelines, straight from the National Stroke Association, if you notice someone acting confused or experiencing dizziness or weakness on one side of the body. It is called FAST (and that is how you should act, too).
The F stands for face. The article recommends that you ask the person to smile. If one side of the face droops, then this could be the sign of a stroke. I will add one more test. Ask the person to stick out his or her tongue. If it goes to one side instead of straight out, this is another sign.
A stands for arms. Ask the person to lift both arms. Look to see if the person has trouble lifting both arms evenly, or if one arms starts to drift downward.
S stands for speech. One of the biggest signs of a stroke is slurred speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is the person clear and understandable? Can he or she repeat the sentence without a problem?
T stands for time. This isn’t really a sign but more of an instruction. If there are signs of a stroke present, get help immediately. Call 911. The victim of a stroke needs to get to the hospital immediately.