4 Bringing health care news to your home F A S T Act F.A.S.T: Recognizing and responding to the signs of stroke A stroke is an unexpected and terrifying experience — especially when it strikes someone close to you. Stroke is the nation’s top cause of disability, but you can boost the chances of recovering from a stroke for yourself or a loved one if you seek treatment quickly. Most strokes happen when a clot blocks the brain’s blood supply and brain cells start to die. Medicine can limit brain damage from a stroke, but to work well, it must be given quickly. That’s why it’s crucial to get medical help at the first sign of a stroke. Understanding F.A.S.T. One effective way to remember the signs of a stroke is through the acronym F.A.S.T. Each letter corresponds to a sign of a stroke: F is for face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop? A is for arms: Request the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? S is for speech: Assess if the person has difficulty speaking or understanding speech. T is for time: Time is of the essence. If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately. “The acronym F.A.S.T. is an important tool for everyone to memorize,” said Dr. Mark Howerter, chief medical officer at Columbus Community Hospital. “Time is the critical factor when dealing with strokes. The sooner a stroke victim receives medical attention, the better their chances are of minimizing long-term damage.” Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Every minute counts, because the brain is extremely sensitive to a lack of oxygen, and delays in treatment can result in more extensive damage.
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