Fast and meticulous

SEEING someone having a stroke can be scary but sometimes it may be subtle and unnoticeable. This is when a person may approach you to tell you that he or she is feeling a little strange and weak. It is important for bystanders to recognise signs of a stroke as swift action can save a life.

When a person is having a stroke, he or she will exhibit tell-tale signs of mobility, muscle and cognitive weakening.

When a stroke occurs, it usually affects muscles along the left and/or the right side of the body. If the stroke is happening on the left side of the brain, the right side of the body will be affected while a stroke on the left side of the brain will affect the left side of the body. However, if it happens on both sides of the brain, it will leave someone in a locked-in state.

Stroke is treatable and if treatment is given fast enough, you may be able to save a person’s life and prevent long-term disability.

The easiest method to identify if someone is having a stroke is to go through a series of steps known as FAST, which stands for face, arms, speech and time.

Here is a detailed explanation of FAST and how to identify the signs of someone having a stroke:

Face – Ask the person to smile. Check if the affected individual’s

face droops or find it difficult to smile.

Arms – Ask the person to lift both arms in unison. Identify if the person is struggling to lift one or both arms. You may also notice one arm drifting downwards.

Speech – Using a simple phrase and ask the individual to repeat it. Pay attention to the way they speak and check if it sounds strange.

Time – If the first three signs indicate a face droop, arm weakness and difficulty in speaking, immediately call for an ambulance. The faster you get the individual to a hospital for treatment, the better the recovery outcome.