FAST (stroke)

FAST (stroke) is a mnemonic acronym used as a memory aid to recognize the signs of a stroke. The acronym stands for Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties and Time to call emergency services.

Overview

Identify the symptoms of a stroke using the FAST method

A stroke is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial. Early action can reduce brain damage and other complications.

The acronym FAST helps people identify the most common symptoms of a stroke:

• Facial drooping: A section of the face, usually only on one side, that is drooping and hard to move. This can be recognized by a crooked smile.
• Arm weakness: The inability to raise one's arm fully
• Speech difficulties: An inability or difficulty to understand or produce speech
• Time: If any of the symptoms above are showing, time is of the essence; call the emergency services or go to the hospital.

Importance of FAST

The FAST test is designed to be very simple so that anyone can use it, even those without medical training. It is important to note that while the FAST test is incredibly useful in identifying stroke, not all strokes cause these signs. Some strokes may cause different symptoms, but the FAST test identifies most strokes, and those that it does not identify are often less dangerous than those that it does.

See also

• Stroke
• Transient ischemic attack
• Cerebrovascular disease