In our representation of victims of dangerous drugs and Social Security disability claimants, we see many people who have suffered strokes. The National Stroke Association has good tips about recognizing the symptoms of a stroke. Here is their guide:
Stroke Symptoms include:
Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg – especially on one side of the body.
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.
Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
If you have experienced any of these symptoms, you may have had a TIA or mini-stroke.
If you think someone may be having a stroke, act F.A.S.T. and do this simple test:
Act F.A.S.T. |
|
| FACE | Ask the person to smile.
Does one side of the face droop? |
| ARMS | Ask the person to raise both arms.
Does one arm drift downward? |
| SPEECH | Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
Are the words slurred? Can he/she repeat the sentence correctly? |
| TIME | If the person shows any of these symptoms, time is important.
Call 911 or get to the hospital fast. Brain cells are dying. |
