Stroke Symptoms
Experiencing stroke symptoms? Call 9-1-1 immediately!
B.E.F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of stroke. When you can spot the signs, you'll know that you need to call 9-1-1 for help right away.
B.E.F.A.S.T. is:
B |
Balance - Is the person suddenly having trouble with balance or coordination? |
E |
Eyes - Is the person experiencing suddenly having trouble with balance or coordination? |
F |
Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven? |
A |
Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? |
S |
Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue." Is the sentence repeated correctly? |
T |
Time to call 9-1-1 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared. |
Other stroke symptoms:
Sudden confusion, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden trouble walking or loss of balance, sudden severe headache with no known cause.
Learn more stroke signs and symptoms
take a stroke health risk assessment
Need directions to the ER? Get Directions here
Remember: Call 9-1-1 if you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency.
Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. EMS staff are trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.
Certified Stroke Care Right Here
Advanced Certified Primary Stroke Center certification is awarded only to hospitals that meet standards set by The Joint Commission for being a leader in the identification, intervention and treatment of stroke care for patients. Certified primary stroke centers consistently set a higher standard of care for stroke patients, as their program has demonstrated that it meets critical elements of performance to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes for stroke patients. To our hospital team, achieving Primary Stroke Center certification is an important accomplishment. To our community, it's assurance that the resources and quality care for stroke treatment will be ready and waiting when needed.