Have you ever heard of the acronym BE FAST?
It’s a simple way to remember the common symptoms of a stroke and act quickly to get medical help. Time is of the essence when it comes to stroke. The longer you wait, the more damage can be done to the brain. So…BE FAST.
So, what does BE FAST stand for?
B – Balance: Is the person experiencing a sudden loss of balance or coordination
E – Eyes: Is the person having sudden vision loss or double vision
F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop
A – Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward
S – Speech: Is the person slurring their speech or having difficulty speaking
T – Time: If any of these symptoms are present, it’s time to call 911 and get to the hospital immediately
Remember, a stroke can happen to anyone at any time, regardless of age or gender. By knowing the BE FAST acronym and acting quickly, you could help save a life and prevent long-term disability.
As a stroke warrior, it’s important to me to spread awareness about stroke symptoms and educate others on the importance of seeking medical help as soon as possible. So, be prepared, be aware, and BE FAST!
I will leave you with a song I listen to often as a reminder and refresher to my soul.
Originally published August 2023, on Stroke Talks, now part of the Mamas and Coffee® community. Learn more about stroke awareness, recovery, and survivor stories at mamasandcoffee.com/stroke-talks
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