B — Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
E — Eyes: Sudden changes in vision.
F — Face: One side of the face droops or becomes numb.
A — Arms: Sudden weakness or numbness, particularly in one arm.
S — Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding.
T — Time: Call emergency services immediately.
Other symptoms, including sudden severe headache and confusion, can also signal a stroke.
Do not wait until every symptom appears. A person may experience only one or two warning signs.
Also, do not wait to see whether symptoms improve. Treatment options for certain strokes are time-sensitive, and prompt medical care can reduce the risk of severe disability or death. .
What Should You Do If You Suspect a Stroke?
If you or someone nearby develops sudden symptoms that could indicate a stroke, take the following steps:
Call your local emergency number immediately. Explain that a stroke is suspected.
Note the time symptoms began, or the last time the person was known to be well.
Do not drive the person yourself if emergency medical transport is available. Emergency personnel can begin assessment and coordinate care.
Do not give food, drinks, or medication, including aspirin, unless instructed by a medical professional. Some strokes involve bleeding, and treatment depends on the cause.
Stay with the person and follow the emergency operator’s instructions.
If symptoms disappear before help arrives, the person still needs urgent medical evaluation. Temporary improvement does not rule out a TIA or stroke.
