Think someone is having a stroke?
If you see ANY of the FAST signs, call 999 immediately. Don't wait to see if symptoms improve.
📞 Call 999The FAST Test
F
Face
Has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
Ask them to smile - look for drooping on one side
A
Arms
Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
Ask them to lift both arms - one may drift down
S
Speech
Is their speech slurred or garbled? Can they speak at all?
Ask them to repeat a simple phrase
T
Time
Time to call 999 if you see ANY of these signs
Note when symptoms started - tell the 999 operator
Other Stroke Symptoms
- Sudden severe headache The worst headache of their life, with no known cause
- Vision problems Sudden blurred or lost vision in one or both eyes
- Confusion Sudden difficulty understanding or speaking
- Dizziness or loss of balance Sudden trouble walking or coordination problems
- Numbness or weakness Especially on one side of the body
What to Do While Waiting
- Call 999 immediately Say "I think this person is having a stroke"
- Note the time When did symptoms start? This affects treatment options
- Keep them comfortable Help them sit or lie down with head slightly raised
- Stay calm and reassure them Stay with them until help arrives
- Don't give food, drink or medication Their swallowing may be affected
Do NOT:
- Give them anything to eat or drink
- Give aspirin (unlike heart attacks, some strokes are caused by bleeding)
- Let them "sleep it off" or wait to see if symptoms improve
- Drive them to hospital yourself - call 999 for an ambulance
Why Every Minute Matters
Stroke treatments work best when given quickly. Clot-busting treatment must be given within 4.5 hours of symptoms starting.
Acting FAST can reduce brain damage and improve recovery.
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Stroke FAST Infographic
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