Stroke: warning signs
By recognising the warning signs of a stroke and taking quick action, you could save your life and reduce the likelihood of permanent brain damage.
Warning signs may occur alone or in combination and may last only a few seconds or up to 24 hours and then disappear. These signs are sometimes called 'mini-strokes' or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and should not be ignored. They indicate a hidden problem with blood flow which could trigger a stroke.
The signs of stroke or TIA could be one or a combination of:
- weakness, numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg on either or both sides of the body;
- difficulty speaking or understanding;
- dizziness, loss of balance or an unexplained fall;
- loss of vision, sudden blurred or decreased vision in one or both eyes;
- headache — usually severe and of abrupt onset, or a change in the pattern of headaches; and
- difficulty swallowing.
If you recognise any of these in yourself or someone you are with, call 000 immediately.
The FAST test is an easy way to remember and recognise the most common signs of stroke. FAST stands for Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to act. Using the FAST test involves asking 3 simple questions:
- Facial weakness — can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
- Arm weakness — can the person raise both arms?
- Speech difficulty — can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
- Time to act fast — call 000 immediately.
Last Reviewed: 08 January 2008
