How To Tell If You Are Having A Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked. Blood brings oxygen and nutrients to the cells. Without blood, brain cells die. This means that a section of the brain starts breaking down and brain function is altered. The quicker a stroke is addressed, the less brain damage there will be and the better the recovery. Strokes are usually painless, but there are signs. Here are 7 ways to tell if you are possibly having a stroke.

What Does FAST Mean?

Use the acronym, FAST.

F = Face drooping, A = Arms weak, S = Speech slurred, and T = Time to call 911. This is the most common way to immediately tell if you are having a stroke. If you are unable to smile evenly is one more indicator.

If you can’t raise both arms above your head suddenly. If you are unable to say a simple sentence without slurring - then you are most likely having a stroke. Having any combination of these signs, without being intoxicated, means that you need help.