What Are The Signs Of A Stroke?

How do you identify whether someone is having a stroke?

The most common signs of stroke are:

• Numbness. This may be felt in the face, arm, leg or possibly around the mouth. Most commonly the weakness occurs on one side of the body.
• Speech problems. Speech may be slurred, and the affected individual may be unable to speak at all.
• Confusion. You may become confused and have trouble understanding what people are saying to you.
• Vision problems.  Double vision may be experienced or difficulty to see out of one eye or both eyes.
• Dizziness. Feeling dizzy and difficultly with coordination and balance may be experienced.
• Head pain.  A severe headache may suddenly come and possible vomiting.

The main symptoms of stroke can be remembered with the…

FAST: Face-Arms-Speech-Time.

• Face – Has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
• Arms – Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
• Speech – Is their speech slurred?
• Time – Time to call 999 for emergency help if you see any single one of these signs.

Violet Care provides Violet High Dependency carers, who have a depth of experience caring for those who have suffered a stroke; we understand the right support that is needed, and ensure it is tailored to the client’s needs.

For more information, we recommend looking at The Stroke Association’s website.