Stroke: Warning Signs & Immediate Action
Minutes matter: Recognize the signs. Act immediately.
This page provides general education and does not replace emergency care.
If symptoms suggest a stroke, call 911 immediately.
Understanding Stroke
What is Stroke?
- Sudden interruption of blood flow to part of the brain
- Most commonly caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke)
- Less commonly caused by bleeding from a ruptured vessel (hemorrhagic stroke)
- Brain tissue begins to suffer irreversible injury within minutes without blood flow
TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
- Brief, stroke-like episode due to temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain
- Symptoms resolve within minutes to hours
- Shares the same risk factors as stroke and signals high future stroke risk
- Requires urgent medical evaluation
Recognize Stroke Signs and Act Immediately
Think FAST
F — Face drooping
Ask the person to smile → one side droops
A — Arm weakness
Ask the person to raise both arms → one arm drifts down
S — Speech difficulty
Ask the person to speak → speech is slurred or abnormal
T — Time to call 911
Call immediately
Other Symptoms of Stroke
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side)
- Trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Vision problems in one or both eyes
- Dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking
- Severe headache with no clear cause
Symptoms may be subtle or intermittent—do not ignore them.
Time is brain: act immediately.
Call 911 immediately.
Note the time symptoms first appear.
If symptoms are present,
Call 911 immediately.
Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
Early recognition and immediate action can save brain cells —and lives.
This page focuses on recognizing stroke warning signs and taking timely action.
For prevention and risk reduction, explore Aikyaa programs and educational resources.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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“Aikyaa” refers to Aikyaa Heart Health & Wellness PLLC.