When it comes to signs of a stroke BE FAST

Fast action can save brain function when having a stroke. There are a number of effective treatments for stroke, but they are most effective only in the first few hours after stroke symptoms start. Don't wait—call 911 if you suspect stroke.

Recognize signs of a stroke with BE FAST

This infographic shows you what you need to look for as signs of a stroke.

Just remember BE FAST where

• B stands for balance, note any sudden difficulty with balance
• E stands for eyes, note any sudden difficulty with vision in one or both eyes
• F stands for face, note if one’s smile starts to droop on one side
• A stands for arms, note a sudden weakness in one arm (or in one leg)
• S stands for speech where one is unable to repeat a simple sentence or slurs a word
• T stands for time--time is of the essence

If you see any of these signs of a stroke in yourself or a loved one, you should call 911 immediately.