These symptoms can appear suddenly — and may last just minutes before disappearing. Never ignore them.
Use the FAST acronym — recommended by doctors worldwide:
Letter
Meaning
F – Face Drooping
One side of the face sags or feels numb — ask the person to smile
A – Arm Weakness
One arm drifts downward when raised — can’t hold it up
S – Speech Difficulty
Slurred speech, confusion, or inability to speak clearly
T – Time to Call Emergency Services
Even if symptoms go away — call 911 immediately
⏱️ Every minute counts. Over 1.9 million brain cells die every minute during a stroke.
🔍 7 Key Signs That Could Signal a Coming Stroke
These can happen minutes, hours, or even days before a major stroke — especially after a TIA.
1. Sudden Confusion or Trouble Understanding Speech
Can’t follow a conversation
Mixes up words
Seems “out of it”
🧠 Often mistaken for dementia or fatigue — but onset is sudden.
2. Sudden Vision Problems
Blurry or blackened vision in one or both eyes
Double vision
Sudden loss of peripheral vision
👁️ May come and go — but always take it seriously.
3. Sudden Severe Headache
“Thunderclap” headache — intense pain out of nowhere
Often with nausea or vomiting
More common in hemorrhagic strokes
🚨 Not typical migraine — this hits instantly.
4. Dizziness, Loss of Balance, or Coordination
Stumbles when walking
Can’t walk straight
Falls without reason
⚠️ Especially concerning if combined with other symptoms.
5. Sudden Numbness or Weakness
In the face, arm, or leg — usually on one side of the body
May feel tingling or pins-and-needles
❗ Even if it lasts only seconds, get help.
