FAST Signs Can Help You Tell When You Are Having a Pre-Stroke

FAST [5] is an acronym that everyone should know. Each letter stands for signs that may indicate when a person is having a pre-stroke or stroke.
- F stands for face: A person’s face may droop on one side. Pay attention to the eyes and mouth. They may have trouble smiling with the whole of their face. If the person sticks their tongue out and is unable to keep it from drifting to one side, it may be a sign of an attack.
- A stands for arms: A person having a stroke or pre-stroke may have difficulty raising both arms equally. If you experience sudden weakness and difficulty when raising one arm or notice that one arm drifts down when you raise it, you may be having a pre-stroke or stroke.
- S stands for speech: Sudden oddities in how a person speaks may be indicative of a pre-stroke. A person may suddenly start to slur while speaking or be unable to speak at all.
- T stands for time: If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.











