The NHS has issued a warning today, Sunday, May 3, urging people to be vigilant about 10 symptoms that could signal a medical emergency. The health service posted advice on X, alerting the public that the initial signs may even appear insignificant at first.
Stroke Symptoms: What to Look For
The NHS warning stated: "The first sign of a stroke might not seem like much - struggling to smile, being unable to lift an arm, or slurred speech. But any sign of a stroke is always an emergency."
"Face or arm or speech - at the first sign, it's time to call 999." The three main symptoms of a stroke can appear suddenly and may include:
- Face weakness – one side of your face may droop and it might be hard to smile
- Arm weakness – you may not be able to fully lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm
- Speech problems – you may slur your words or sound confused
The simplest way to recall these symptoms is the word FAST, which stands for: face, arms, speech and time to call 999.
Seven Additional Signs
There are seven further signs - making 10 in total - that you or someone else may be having a stroke. These include:
- Weakness or numbness down one side of your body
- Blurred vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes
- Finding it difficult to speak or think of words
- Confusion and memory loss
- Feeling dizzy or falling over
- A severe headache
- Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
Stroke symptoms can sometimes subside after a brief period, leading you to believe you are fine. Even if this occurs, seek medical attention immediately. While the risk of stroke increases with age, it can strike at any age.
When to Call 999
Call 999 immediately if:
- You believe you are having, or have had, a stroke
- You have experienced signs of a stroke within the last 24 hours, even if they have since stopped
The Stroke Association warns that a stroke can affect anyone, regardless of age, at any time. Knowing how to recognise the signs of a stroke in yourself or others is absolutely crucial.
A stroke is a medical emergency requiring urgent treatment, as every single minute counts. If you notice or experience any of the symptoms below, do not delay. Dial 999 immediately.
How Long Do Symptoms Last?
Symptoms differ from person to person but typically come on suddenly. If symptoms only persist for a short period, it could indicate a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), commonly referred to as a mini-stroke.
It remains very important to call 999 and seek urgent medical care. A TIA is a medical emergency and serves as a warning that you are at risk of suffering a full stroke.
Find out more about strokes on the NHS website.
