Stroke Warning Signs

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Know Stroke Symptoms and BE FAST*

Brain damage can start within minutes of a stroke, although it may take hours to notice symptoms, which are often mistaken for other conditions.

Remember BE FAST*:

B = BALANCE: Sudden loss of balance
E = EYESIGHT: Blurred, double vision or no vision in one or both eyes

F = FACE: Face looks uneven; one side droops when smiling
A = ARMS: When both arms are raised, one drifts down
S = SPEECH: Trouble speaking or confusion; unable to repeat a simple phrase
T = TIME: Call 911 if you observe or experience any of these signs

Bluffton Regional Medical Center is home to the first comprehensive stroke center in northern Indiana and has achieved the country's highest level of stroke care certification available.

Reduce Stroke Risks

Some risk factors - age, past strokes and family history of strokes - can't be controlled, but many others can. Check out the risk assessment scorecard for a quick snapshot of your risks. Then, take charge to reduce your risks:

• Know and control your blood pressure.
• Ask your doctor to check for atrial fibrillation.
• If you smoke or use other forms of tobacco, stop!
• If you are diabetic, follow your doctor's recommendations carefully to control your diabetes.
• Lower the sodium (salt) and fat in your diet.
• Include exercise in your daily routine and maintain a healthy weight.
• Control high cholesterol.

Talk with your healthcare provider about your risk factors and personal goals for healthy living.

*BE FAST was developed by Intermountain Healthcare, as an adaptation of the FAST model implemented by the American Stroke Association. Reproduced with permission from Intermountain Healthcare. Copyright 2011, Intermountain Healthcare.