Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of long-term disability. In Kentucky and surrounding states, strokes are on the increase in younger people, due in large part to preventable risk factors, such as obesity, high blood pressure, smoking and lack of physical activity.

Take the time to learn how to recognize the warning signs of stroke. It could save a life. 

Stroke Symptoms

Call 911 as soon as you notice symptoms:

Balance

Is the person having trouble walking?
Loss of balance or coordination, dizziness

Is the person having trouble seeing?
Change in vision in one or both eyes

Ask the person to smile. Does the smile look even?
Face looks uneven, droopy or is numb

Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drop down?
Weakness or numbness in one arm (or leg)

Speech

Does the person have trouble speaking?
Slurred or difficult speech

Time lost = brain lost
Note the time symptoms start

Another symptom could be a sudden, severe headache.

Related Content: Comprehensive Stroke System offers the highest level of care when time matters.

Norton Healthcare has the largest network of accredited stroke centers in the area.

• Norton Brownsboro Hospital’s designation as a Comprehensive Stroke Center by The Joint Commission and American Stroke Association represents the highest level of care.
• The Joint Commission also certified Norton Audubon Hospital and Norton Hospital as Primary Stroke Centers and Norton Women’s & Children’s Hospital as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital.

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