Friday, January 17, 2014

FAST

The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association work together to inform us about the symptoms of strokes.  This month the AHA newsletter, "Insight", informs us about F.A.S.T.; an acronym developed to help us act quickly if we are aware that someone might be suffering from a stroke.  F stands for face drooping. A stands for arm weakness. S refers to speech difficulty and T stands for time.  Time is so important! Calling 911 and getting someone transferred to an emergency facility is of utmost importance.  This is not the time to drive oneself to urgent care. In the event of an ischemic stroke, medication can be given to help open up the blocked blood vessel to the brain.  However, there is a window of opportunity so if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, this is not the time to sit around thinking about it. This is the time to act! You can also learn more about stroke symptoms by visiting  www.strokeassociation.org. Remember FAST.