There is always an added urgency that comes from witnessing the warning signs of a stroke. Within the first few minutes, even seconds count. That’s why the FAST test has been so valuable as an early sign of stroke. The FAST technique is easy to learn, easy to perform, and incredibly effective, which helps in putting the ability to recognize the signs and act on them. Here is what FAST stands for:

F is for Face

The first thing to look for is a change in the face. Can the person smile? Is half of the face sagging or uneven? Is the person’s smile uneven, or can they not move half of their mouth? Sagging of the face is a common sign of stroke and is usually the result of weakness or paralysis of half of the facial muscles. This is because a stroke can disrupt blood flow to the brain’s control of the facial muscles, usually on the side of the brain where the damage is most severe. If you see this, it’s a warning sign that something serious is going on.

A is for Arms

The second step is to check the arms. Have the person hold both arms straight out in front of them, palms up. Stand beside them and look; is one arm lower, or is one arm considerably weaker than the other? In severe cases, the person can’t even lift one arm. Weakness or numbness of the arms is another common stroke sign, where damage to the area of the brain in charge of movement and sensation occurs. Even the smallest issue in the strength or movement of the arms is a sign of concern.

S for Speech

Speech is the third area to take notice of. Have the person repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue” or “It’s a sunny day.” Listen carefully to see if the person’s speech is slurred, mumbled, or hard to understand. Is the person struggling to get words out, or do the words the person is saying not correspond to what he or she is trying to say? Difficulty speaking or understanding words is a stroke warning, as it indicates disruption of the brain’s language centers. At times, the person seems confused or is unable to respond to anything. Any abrupt change in speech, even if slight, should be seen as a red flag.

T is for Time

The third and most important one is time. If you notice any of these signs, such as a drooping face, weakness on one side of the body, or slurred speech, call emergency services right away. Do not drive the person yourself to the hospital, and don’t wait and observe whether the signs disappear. Stroke treatments are most successful if given right after the symptoms appear, typically within a short period of a few hours. Make sure to record the time symptoms started, which will help doctors decide on the treatment. In a stroke, time makes all the difference.

Why Is the FAST Test Important?

The FAST test works so well because it’s easy to learn and apply. Although FAST won’t detect all strokes, sudden blindness, dizziness, or loss of balance, it helps recognize the most common and obvious warning signs. A stroke can occur to anyone, at any time, and without warning. But with the FAST test, you have a great tool in your hands to recognize the signs and act quickly. If you ever notice someone with a sudden drooping face, arm weakness, or slurred speech, don’t delay and call emergency services immediately, and note the time symptoms first appear. To know more about stroke and the FAST technique, talk to a healthcare professional immediately.