Topics, What You Should Know
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and the number one preventable cause of disability in Michigan. A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is either due to occlusion of the artery (ischemic) or rupture of that artery (hemorrhagic). When this happens, brain cells begin to die due to lack of oxygen. Delayed diagnosis and treatment can result in permanent disability or death. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs of stroke and know what to do in an emergency, like call 911 if you see someone having stroke symptoms.
B: BALANCE
Does the person have a sudden loss of balance?
Trouble walking, dizzy, loss of balance or coordination
E: EYES
Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
F: FACE
Does the person's face look uneven?
Is their smile crooked or mouth drooping?
A: ARM
Is one arm hanging down?
Can the person raise both arms equally?
S: SPEECH
Is the person's speech slurred?
Is speech slurred, or drooling, or confused?
T: TIME / TERRIBLE HEADACHE
Does the patient have a terrible headache?
TIME IS CRITICAL!