F.A.S.T Response
The F in F.A.S.T stands for
facial drooping
This "silent killer" is the leading controllable risk factor for strokes
high blood pressure
This type of stroke, accounting for about 87% of all cases, occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery.
Ischemic stroke
Instead of driving yourself or a loved one to the hospital, you should always do this.
Call 911
This type of therapy helps stroke survivors relearn daily tasks like dressing, bathing, and eating.
Occupational Therapy (OT)
You may be asked to raise theses
Arms
Quitting this habit can reduce your stroke risk almost immediately
Smoking/vaping
Often called a "mini-stroke," this event is a temporary blockage that serves as a major warning sign.
TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
This "clot-busting" medication can be given to ischemic stroke patients, but usually only within a 3 to 4.5-hour window.
tPA (Tissue Plasminogen Activator)
This term refers to the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections after an injury.
Neuroplasticity
This may happen to your speech
Slurred
This condition can cause damage to blood vessels overtime
Diabetes
This type of stroke occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the brain.
Hemorrhagic stroke
This surgical procedure involves a doctor physically removing a large blood clot from a patient's brain using a catheter.
Thrombectomy
A stroke survivor struggling to speak or understand language is suffering from this condition.
Aphasia
If you experience any of these you need to
call 911
This irregular heart rhythm can cause blood to pool in the heart and form clots that travel to the brain.
Atrial Fibrillation (or AFib)
A "brain attack" on this side of the brain typically causes paralysis or weakness on the right side of the body
the Left Side
This is why it is vital to note the "Last Known Well" time
to determine which treatments (like tPA) are safe to use
This specialist helps survivors regain strength, balance, and the ability to walk.
Physical therapist (PT)
The T in F.A.S.T stands for
Time
These are non-modifiable risks
Family history, race, or age
This is the term for a bulge in an artery wall that can burst and cause a hemorrhagic stroke.
Aneurysm
You should never give a suspected stroke victim this common over-the-counter painkiller, as it could worsen a hemorrhagic stroke.
Aspirin
Post-stroke ________ affects up to 1/3 of survivors and can significantly impact their motivation for rehab.
Depression