The Critical Window
When it comes to stroke, time is brain. Every minute that a stroke goes untreated, an estimated 1.9 million neurons are lost. Understanding the warning signs and acting quickly can dramatically improve outcomes and reduce the risk of permanent disability or death.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types:
- Ischaemic stroke (87% of cases): Caused by a blood clot blocking a blood vessel in the brain
- Haemorrhagic stroke (13% of cases): Caused by a blood vessel in the brain rupturing and bleeding into surrounding tissue
The FAST Method
The FAST acronym is the most effective way to remember and recognise stroke symptoms:
F — Face Drooping
Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop or feel numb? An uneven smile is a warning sign.
A — Arm Weakness
Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm is a key indicator.
S — Speech Difficulty
Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange? Are they unable to speak or hard to understand?
T — Time to Call Emergency Services
If you observe any of these signs, even if the symptoms seem to go away, call emergency services immediately. Note the time when symptoms first appeared — this information is critical for treatment decisions.
