According to the American Stroke Association, a stroke destroys 1.9 million brain cells every minute. Timely medication or surgery can reduce stroke’s effects. To make sure you get treatment fast, you should know the sudden signs of stroke.

The FAST Signs of Stroke

Stroke often comes on fast. When it does, think FAST. to recognize the most common symptoms of a stroke.

• F is for face. You may notice one side of the face drooping, or half of your face may go numb. If you suspect a stroke in someone else, ask the person to smile. A lopsided smile may indicate a stroke.
• A is for arm. If you ask a person to raise both arms and only one arm stays up, it may be a stroke. Weakness or numbness in one arm are also signs and symptoms that can be the result of a stroke.
• S is for speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or are they unable to follow your direction? These are common signs of stroke.
• T is for time. Remember – every minute counts with a stroke. Any of the symptoms above mean it’s time to call 911.

More Quick Symptoms to Know

Some strokes don’t have FAST symptoms. Other signs of stroke include:

• Balance problems. You may feel dizzy. Walking may become difficult, as you lose your balance or coordination.
• Confusion. In addition to slurred speech, a stroke can make it hard to understand what people say.
• Headache. You may experience a sudden, severe headache for no obvious reason. The symptom is typical of the type of stroke caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain.
• Loss of strength. One side of the body may experience weakness or numbness. The problem will likely affect your face, arm or leg.
• Vision issues. Your vision may suddenly get worse. This problem may affect one or both eyes.

There Is No Small Stroke

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is known as a mini-stroke, and it should be a major wake-up call. TIAs are warning signs. They indicate a full-blown stroke may be in your future.

TIAs often present with the same types of symptoms as a full-blown stroke. However, TIA symptoms typically last for several minutes or a few hours. They may come and go multiple times.

If you experience stroke symptoms that go away quickly, take note and take action. Seek emergency care as soon as possible. Your provider may perform tests, such as an angiogram, CT scan or MRI. Based on the findings, you may be monitored at the hospital for a day or two.

If you have high blood pressure, diabetes or other stroke risk factors, your care team can help manage those and reduce your risk for future stroke.