FAST Stroke Tips That Will Save Lives

April 17, 2023

May is a designated time for many important health observances, including Stroke Awareness Month, making it the perfect opportunity to refocus on your overall wellness and prioritize healthier habits. An important part of improving your health means paying attention to your physical well-being and even the well-being of others. Knowing the symptoms of a stroke can help you take quick action, whether it's happening to you or someone you love.

Preventing Stroke

Suffering from a stroke can be deadly. It is the number five cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. This, despite that 80 percent of strokes are preventable. High blood pressure is the most important controllable risk factor, so knowing your numbers and talking to your primary care provider about how keep your blood pressure at healthy levels is key to prevention.

Knowing Stroke Symptoms

Knowing the symptoms of a stroke is often the first line of defense in getting proper care. Some symptoms of stroke include

sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arms or legs,
confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech,
trouble seeing in one or both eyes,
trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance and coordination, and
severe headache with no known cause.

One of the best ways to recognize a stroke is by familiarizing yourself with the F.A.S.T. warning signs:

F – Face Drooping. Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the smile uneven?

A – Arm Weakness. Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S – Speech Difficulty. Is the person’s speech slurred?

T – Time to call 9-1-1.

UAMS Telestroke Partnership at NPMC

National Park Medical Center partners with the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences' (UAMS) Institute for Digital Health and Information (IDHI) Stroke Program, also known as Arkansas Saves, to deliver live, telemedicine-based, neurology consultations in the emergency department. Every second counts during a stroke, and this program connects potential stroke patients with specialists who offer on-the-spot stroke diagnosis and treatment through telehealth technology 24/7.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of stroke, time is of the essence. Dial 9-1-1 immediately to get connected to the proper care. For more information about stroke warning signs, prevention and recovery, visit https://www.stroke.org/.

If you would like to speak to a provider about your stroke risk factors or your mental wellness, NPMC can help. Call (501) 321-1000 or visit Find a Doctor/Provider at www.nationalparkmedical.com to schedule an appointment today. In the event of a stroke emergency, always call 9-1-1. Minutes matter, and acting quickly may save a life, including your own.

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