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Signs of stroke
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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.

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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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Next chapter:

Causes of stroke

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Young Stroke is an initiative of Stroke Foundation and is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.

This website was created with lived experts and the Lived Experience Working Group. We acknowledge the individual and collective expertise of those with a living or lived experience of stroke. We recognise their vital contribution at all levels. We value the courage of those who share this unique perspective to achieve better outcomes for all.

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