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:
Balance Loss
Does the person have a sudden loss of balance?
Eyesight Changes
Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?
Face Drooping
Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?
Arm Weakness
Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Speech Difficulty
Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a sentence like "The sky is blue." Is it repeated correctly?
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.
Need directions to the ER? Get Directions
Telestroke Services
As a Duke Health affiliate, Person Memorial Hospital has access to Duke stroke specialists, ensuring prompt evaluation and treatment for stroke patients. Duke Telestroke team collaborates on stroke protocols and provides quality reviews and education based on national stroke guidelines. This affiliation will streamline the care process, expediting the transfer of patients requiring complex procedures to specialized facilities.
The Duke Telestroke Network enables remote consultations between Duke neurologists and patients via two-way telemedicine video conferencing. Using state-of-the-art technology, neurologists can evaluate patients, review CT scans, and collaborate with local medical teams to determine the most appropriate course of action. When necessary, patients can be swiftly transferred for advanced procedures.
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.