Stroke Warning Signs

There’s a common misconception that stroke always looks like a massive, debilitating seizure. In reality, many stroke sufferers experience mild symptoms and aren’t sure whether they’ve had a stroke. But even these seemingly mild attacks require immediate medical attention. Use the FAST test if you think you or someone you know has suffered a stroke.

Facial weakness – Ask the person to smile. Does his or her face drop?
Arm weakness - Can he or she raise both arms?
Speech problems – Is it possible to repeat a simple sentence without slurring words?
Time – Don’t waste it. Call 911 immediately.

Only a doctor can issue a medical diagnosis of stroke, but using the FAST test helps get stroke patients to a hospital in time. This quick test should be performed if any of the following symptoms arise:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg - especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

It’s always better to err on the side of caution if you experience these symptoms or fail part of the FAST test. Recovery from stroke is common, but it requires quick action.

Other warning signs include:

• Abrupt loss of vision in one eye
• Weakness, numbness or heaviness in one arm or leg, or one side of the body
• Severe headache followed by sleepiness

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or call 911.

Stroke warning signs fact sheet

Learn more about F.A.S.T. and UK's designation as a primary stroke center (PDF)

To make an appointment or find a physician, please call UK HealthCare at 859-257-1000 or toll free 1-800-333-8874.
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Page last updated Wednesday, May 2, 2007 8:47 AM