Suspected stroke FAST

Overview

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. This can cause brain cells to die. It is a medical emergency. FAST stands for Face, Arms, Speech, Time – it helps you remember the most common signs of a stroke and why you need to act fast.

Yes, stroke is common. Each year, millions of people around the world have a stroke. It is a major health emergency that affects people of all ages, though it becomes more common with age.

Stroke can affect anyone, including children and younger adults. However, the risk increases as you get older, especially after age 55. People with high blood pressure, diabetes, or who smoke are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the face – for example, one side of the mouth droops when you try to smile.
• Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm – you may not be able to lift both arms equally.
• Sudden trouble speaking – your speech may be slurred or you may not understand what someone is saying.
• Time to call emergency services – if you see any of these signs, call your local emergency number immediately.

Symptoms in children

• In children, stroke symptoms can be similar to adults, but they may also have a sudden seizure, severe headache, or trouble walking.
• A child might suddenly become confused, have vision problems, or complain of dizziness.
• If a child shows any stroke-like symptoms, call emergency services right away.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have typical FAST symptoms, but they can also present with sudden confusion, dizziness, or a sudden fall.
• Sometimes older adults have a severe headache with no known cause, or trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Because these symptoms may be mistaken for aging or other conditions, it is important to act quickly if something seems wrong.

Causes

Main causes

• Ischemic stroke: a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain. This is the most common type.
• Hemorrhagic stroke: a blood vessel in the brain bursts and causes bleeding.

Risk factors

• High blood pressure (the biggest risk factor).
• Smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke.
• Diabetes.
• High cholesterol.
• Being overweight or obese.
• Not getting enough physical activity.
• Drinking too much alcohol.
• Older age (especially over 55).
• Family history of stroke.
• Heart conditions like atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you or someone else has any sudden signs of a stroke – even if they go away – call emergency services immediately. Do not wait.
• If symptoms last only a few minutes (possible TIA), still seek same-day medical help.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, see your doctor regularly to manage these conditions.
• If you have concerns about your stroke risk, make an appointment to discuss preventive steps.

Diagnosis

Doctors will ask about your symptoms and medical history, do a physical exam, and use imaging tests to look at your brain.

Tests that may be done

• CT scan: a special X-ray that can show bleeding in the brain.
• MRI scan: a more detailed picture of the brain.
• Blood tests to check for clotting problems or other issues.
• Carotid ultrasound to see if there are blockages in the neck arteries.
• Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to look for blood clots that may have traveled to the brain.

What to expect at your appointment

In the emergency room, the team will act quickly. You may have a CT scan within minutes of arrival. The doctors will decide the best treatment based on whether the stroke is caused by a clot or bleeding. You will likely be admitted to the hospital for observation and further care.

Treatment

Treatment for stroke depends on the type and how soon you get help. Emergency treatment aims to restore blood flow to the brain or stop bleeding. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery.

Self-care at home

• Do not take aspirin or any other medicine unless a doctor tells you to – it could make certain types of stroke worse.
• While waiting for emergency help, keep the person calm and lying on their side if they are unconscious.
• Do not give food or drink in case of swallowing problems.

Medical treatments

For ischemic stroke (clot), doctors may use clot-dissolving medications given through a vein, or perform a procedure to remove the clot using a catheter. For hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding), treatment focuses on controlling bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain, sometimes with medication or surgery. Your healthcare team will decide the best approach based on your specific situation.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be needed for some hemorrhagic strokes to repair the burst blood vessel or to relieve pressure on the brain. In some ischemic strokes, a procedure called a thrombectomy (removing a clot with a catheter) may be done. Your doctor will explain if surgery is an option for you.

Living with this condition

After a stroke, recovery can take weeks, months, or longer. Many people need rehabilitation – physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy – to regain skills and adapt to changes. Support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals is key.

Lifestyle tips

• Take all prescribed medications exactly as your doctor advises.
• Attend follow-up appointments and rehabilitation sessions.
• Make your home safer – remove rugs that could trip you, install grab bars in the bathroom.
• Ask for help when you need it – recovery is a journey, not a race.

Diet and exercise

Eat a heart-healthy diet: plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. As you are able, engage in gentle physical activity like walking or stretching – ask your doctor or physical therapist what is safe for you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is common to feel sad, anxious, or frustrated after a stroke. Talk to your doctor if these feelings persist. Support groups and counseling can help. You are not alone – many people face these emotions and find ways to cope.

Prevention

Many strokes can be prevented by managing risk factors. This includes controlling blood pressure, not smoking, eating a healthy diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol. If you have atrial fibrillation or other heart conditions, proper treatment can reduce stroke risk.

Vaccines

While there is no vaccine for stroke itself, staying up-to-date on other vaccines (like flu and pneumonia) can help prevent illnesses that might trigger a stroke in some people. Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for you.

Screening programmes

Regular blood pressure checks are one of the most important screening tools. Your doctor may also recommend checking cholesterol and blood sugar levels. If you have a family history of stroke, talk to your doctor about additional screening.

Complications

If left untreated

• Permanent brain damage and disability, such as paralysis or trouble speaking.
• Loss of independence in daily activities.
• Increased risk of another stroke.
• Death – stroke is a leading cause of death worldwide.

Long-term outlook

With prompt treatment, many people survive a stroke and recover well – some fully, others with lasting changes but still able to live meaningful lives. Rehabilitation helps you regain as much function as possible. Each person’s recovery is unique, and there is always hope. Staying positive and following your care plan can make a big difference.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.