Suspect a stroke? Call 112 now. Note the time symptoms started. For Terna Speciality Hospital & Research Centre emergency care, call +91 96194 88818.
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel bursts. Without enough oxygen, brain cells can be damaged quickly, sometimes causing lasting disability. Knowing the stroke symptoms helps you act quickly, because treatment depends on how soon the person reaches a hospital.
What are the FAST and BE FAST warning signs of a stroke?
FAST is a simple way to recognise common stroke symptoms. BE FAST adds Balance and Eyes to catch strokes that FAST alone can miss.
- B, Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination, or trouble walking
- E, Eyes: Sudden blurred or double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes
- F, Face drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- A, Arm weakness: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm fall or feel weak?
- S, Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred, or is the person struggling to speak clearly?
- T, Time to act: Call emergency services immediately if you notice any of these signs.
In India, dial 112. Note when symptoms began, or when the person was last seen well.
Even if symptoms disappear after a few minutes, seek urgent care. They could mean a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke.
What are other symptoms of a stroke?
Symptoms vary with the part of the brain affected. Other warning signs include
- Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding speech
- Sudden vision problems
- Dizziness, loss of balance or difficulty walking
- A sudden, severe headache with no obvious cause
Do not wait for symptoms to improve. A suspected stroke is a medical emergency, even if the person seems to recover.
Why does every minute matter during a stroke?
A stroke can damage brain tissue and affect movement, speech, memory and vision. Quick medical help gives doctors the best chance to assess the condition and start appropriate stroke emergency treatment.
Some patients with an ischaemic stroke, caused by a blocked blood vessel, may qualify for clot-dissolving medication or mechanical thrombectomy, a procedure that removes a clot. Treatment depends on the type of stroke, when symptoms started and the results of brain imaging. Delays can mean missing treatment opportunities.
What should you do if someone shows stroke symptoms?
- Call 112. Say you suspect a stroke and give the person’s location.
- Note the time. Record when symptoms started. If the person woke up with symptoms, note when they were last known to be well.
- Keep the person safe. Stay with them and follow the emergency dispatcher’s instructions.
- Give nothing by mouth. No food, drink or aspirin. Stroke can affect swallowing, and aspirin may worsen bleeding in some types of stroke.
If the person becomes unconscious or is not breathing normally, tell the dispatcher and follow their instructions.
How is a stroke diagnosed and treated?
Doctors assess symptoms and usually do a CT or MRI scan to identify the type of stroke and guide treatment.
- Ischemic stroke: caused by a blocked blood vessel
- Hemorrhagic stroke: caused by a blood vessel bleeding into or around the brain
Treatment may involve clot removal, bleeding control, blood pressure management or surgery, depending on the cause. Rehabilitation, including physiotherapy and speech therapy, can help patients regain lost abilities.
Where can you get stroke care in Navi Mumbai?
If someone shows possible stroke symptoms, seek emergency care immediately rather than waiting for an appointment. Terna Speciality Hospital & Research Centre, opposite Nerul Railway Station in Nerul West, has an Accident & Emergency department, ICU services and a neurology team. You can read the profile of Dr. Aarati Kulkarni, neurologist.
- Emergency: +91 96194 88818
- Appointment desk: +91 96194 88802
- Hospital board line: +91 22 6157 8300
- Address: Centre Plot No. 12, Sector 22, opposite Nerul Railway Station, Phase II, Nerul West, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400706
Final takeaway
Learn the BE FAST signs: sudden loss of balance, vision changes, face drooping, arm weakness and speech difficulty, along with other sudden neurological symptoms. Every minute matters. If you suspect a stroke, call 112 immediately. Early care can reduce the risk of serious brain damage and long-term disability.
A suspected stroke is a medical emergency, even if the person seems to recover. contact Neurologist Terna Speciality Hospital & Research Centre, Navi Mumbai..
Still have lingering questions? Let’s address the most common ones patients ask.
What does FAST mean in stroke recognition?
FAST stands for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty and Time to call emergency services. BE FAST adds Balance and Eyes.
Can a stroke happen without face drooping?
Yes. Sudden vision problems, confusion, dizziness or difficulty walking can also be signs of a stroke.
Can stroke symptoms disappear after a few minutes?
Yes. Temporary symptoms may indicate a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), which still needs urgent medical assessment.
Should you give aspirin to someone having a stroke?
No. A stroke can be caused by a clot or by bleeding, and only a scan can tell which. Aspirin may worsen bleeding. Do not give food, drink or medicines. Wait for emergency professionals.
Can a stroke be treated if the patient reaches the hospital quickly?
Some patients qualify for time-sensitive treatments. Early assessment helps doctors choose the right treatment for the stroke type and clinical findings.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice.