Know the Signs of a Stroke. Act FAST!

A stroke can happen without warning, and recognizing the symptoms quickly could save someone’s life.

Salty ER Nurse Academy LLC is reminding Benbrook residents to remember BE FAST, a simple way to recognize possible stroke symptoms:

• B: Balance. Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• E: Eyes. Sudden vision changes, including loss of vision in one eye.
• F: Face. Drooping or weakness on one side of the face.
• A: Arms. Sudden weakness or numbness, especially in one arm.
• S: Speech. Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
• T: Time. Call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms appear.

Time matters. Certain stroke patients may qualify for clot-busting medication within 4.5 hours of when they were last known to be well, depending on medical evaluation and eligibility.

The academy also notes that emergency teams check blood sugar because dangerously low glucose levels can sometimes mimic stroke symptoms.

Don’t wait for symptoms to improve or try to drive yourself to the hospital. Call 911 immediately, even if symptoms disappear.

For more information, visit SaltyNurseAcademy.com.