What Are the Warning Signs of a Stroke?
Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke quickly can save a life. A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Because brain damage can begin quickly, every minute matters.
Remember BE FAST
A simple way to recognize stroke symptoms is the acronym BE FAST:
B - Balance: Sudden loss of balance, dizziness, or difficulty walking.
E - Eyes: Sudden blurred, double, or decreased vision.
F - Face: One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile.
A - Arms: Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm. Ask the person to raise both arms and watch for one drifting downward.
S - Speech: Speech may suddenly become slurred, difficult to understand, or unusual.
T - Time: Call 911 immediately if any of these signs of a stroke appear. Do not wait for symptoms to improve or attempt to drive the person to the hospital.
Other symptoms may include sudden confusion, severe headache with no known cause, numbness or weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty understanding others.
How OCTIHEALTH Can Help After a Stroke
After emergency treatment and once a patient returns home, recovery may continue with skilled home health care when medically appropriate and ordered. OCTIHEALTH can support eligible patients through Skilled Nursing, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Home Health Aides, and Medical Social Work.
OCTIHEALTH therapists can help address mobility, balance, strength, daily activities, communication, and swallowing challenges following a stroke. Skilled nurses can assist with health monitoring, medication education, and other ordered medical needs.
Knowing the warning signs of a stroke and acting quickly is critical. If you suspect a stroke, call 911 immediately.
📲 For information about OCTIHEALTH home health care after hospitalization, call or text (847) 305-3070.
REFRENCES-
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Signs and Symptoms of Stroke
Information on stroke warning signs, B.E. F.A.S.T., and when to call 911.
American Stroke Association: Stroke Symptoms and Warning Signs Information about B.E. F.A.S.T., additional stroke symptoms, and the importance of immediate emergency care.
