The FAST test – how to recognise the symptoms of a stroke

If symptoms such as paralysis, speech disorder or loss of sensation arise, you should immediately call an ambulance. The following applies: the less time it takes to first treatment, the greater the chance of long-term therapy success.

• Face
  Ask the person to smile. If one side of the face droops and the smile only appears on the other side of the face, facial paralysis is present.
• Arms
  Ask the person to raise both arms. If the person suffers a stroke, one arm drifts downward or even cannot be raised.
• Speech
  Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. The person affected may not repeat the words correctly or may use slurred or even strange phrases.
• Time
  If you observe any of these signs, call an ambulance immediately. Remember to note the time of the first symptoms and tell the doctor that you suspect a stroke. This is important information which can affect treatment decisions and therefore the person’s life.