Signs of stroke

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The F.A.S.T. test is an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke:

  • Face - Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
  • Arms - Can they lift both arms?
  • Speech - Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
  • Time - Is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.

Summary

The F.A.S.T. test is an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke:

  • Face - Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
  • Arms - Can they lift both arms?
  • Speech - Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
  • Time - Is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.

There can be other signs too:  

  • Your face, arm or leg can be numb, clumsy, weak, or paralysed. This can be on one or both sides of your body
  • Feeling dizzy, losing balance, or falling over for no reason
  • Losing your vision. This can be in one or both eyes
  • Headache, usually severe and sudden
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Nausea and vomiting.  

If you see any of the signs of stroke, call triple zero (000) straight away. Even if you aren’t sure, or the signs only last for a few minutes, call triple zero (000).  

Learn more about signs of stroke.

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