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What is the FAST test for stroke?

The FAST test is a simple set of early warning signs for stroke that anyone can use to recognize stroke in themselves or in others. FAST is an acronym for: Face (is it droopy, flaccid, especially just on one side? Can the person smile?); Arms (can the person lift both their arms above their head?); Speech (are there problems speaking and/or understanding speech? Is speech slurred?), and; Time (quick action will improve the chances of survival and recovery).

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is stroke?

A stroke is an interruption in blood flow to the brain that causes permanent brain injury.

What causes stroke?

Stroke happens when oxygen-rich blood cannot reach the brain cells.

Are there different types of stroke?

There are two main types of stroke: ischemic stroke, which happens when a blood vessel leading to the brain gets blocked, and hemorrhagic stroke, which happens when a blood vessel leading to the brain suddenly bleeds. A transient ischemic attack is a …

What are the symptoms of stroke?

Symptoms and effects of stroke can include: sudden weakness on one side of the body; inability to move or lift the arm; sudden paralysis of one side of the body; movement and coordination problems; cognitive problems; sudden, severe headache; dizziness …

Who gets stroke?

While anyone can have a stroke, it is more common in older adults. High blood pressure, smoking, a poor diet and obesity are also major contributors to the risk of stroke.

How is stroke diagnosed?

Stroke is diagnosed by its symptoms and a physical examination. Brain imaging scans are used to identify and locate the stroke.

How is stroke treated?

Immediate treatment for stroke is given at a hospital and concentrates on restoring normal blood flow to the brain. Once the situation has stabilized, rehabilitation can concentrate on regaining normal functions and adjusting to the post-stroke situation.

Can stroke be prevented?

The risk of stroke cannot be completely eliminated, but you can lessen the chance of it happening by stopping smoking, reducing high blood pressure, becoming more physically active and improving your diet.

What is the outlook for stroke?

Unfortunately, about a quarter of all people following a stroke, die within a month; about a half die within a year. Hemorrhagic stroke is particularly fatal, with nearly half of all victims dying within a month. For those who survive a stroke, …

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 16 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 18 Oct 2018
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Votes: 595 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Ischaemic stroke

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