Stroke Warning Signs

If you are experiencing symptoms, call 911.

Know the Signs

A stroke can happen to anyone at any time, and few Americans are aware of the common symptoms.

The acronym ‘B.E.F.A.S.T.’ is used to remind people of what to look for in the case of a stroke:

B – Balance. Sudden loss of balance.

E – Eyesight. Sudden vision loss.

F – Face. Check for uneven smile; one side of face is drooping or numb.

A – Arms. One arm is weak or numb

S – Speech Difficulty. Listen for slurred speech or difficulty speaking.

T – Time to call 911. Call 911 right away.

Learning the signs–and acting fast when they occur–could save your life or the life of a loved one. (To learn more about stroke signs and symptoms, click here.)

Common stroke symptoms include:

  • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg – especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden severe headache with no known cause

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