Recognizing the signs of a stroke

A stroke can come in two forms, one in the form of a blood vessel narrowing or blockage and the other as a brain bleed. A stroke is an acute neurological injury that occurs as a result of one of those above mentioned pathologic processes. 

For best stroke outcomes, it is recommended that the patient reach the hospital within 3 hours of symptom onset. According to the American Stroke Association, only 3-5% of patients make that window. Recognizing the sign of stroke can help you take action sooner, remember “FAST”:

• Face: Does one side of the face droop?
• Arm: Is one arm or leg weak or numb?
• Speech: Is speech slurred or strange?
• Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 911 immediately.