Stroke - Think F A S T, Act Fast

Written by Julie Taylor

Stroke - Think F A S T  Act Fast...

At the end of this article is a fantastic presentation by Dr Jill Bolte-Taylor who was a neuroscientist at the time she had a massive stroke and she walks us through the whole thing...  She was totally disabled - and it took her 10 years to recover - but she did... This presentation is also available as a book and as an audiobook and is called 'MY STROKE OF INSIGHT' - this is one of the best pieces of information I've come across in years.

A stroke is like a brain attack and time is critical. Learn to recognize a stroke so you can think fast and act fast. Time lost is brain lost.

If you or someone you know is having stroke-like symptoms, dial 911 and ask to be taken directly to your nearest Hospital Emergency Room.  "LIFE AFTER HEART ATTACK" is a very good DVD that explains the weeks following a heart attack.

Learn the Signs of a Stroke: Think F A S T.

• Face: Does the face look uneven? Ask the person to smile.

• Arms: Does one arm hang down? Ask the person to raise their arm.

• Speech: Does the person's speech sound odd? Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase.

• Time: If you observe any of these signs, it's time to call 911 and ask to be taken directly to your nearest  Hospital Emergency Room.

TIP (To help remember F A S T etc…)

Keep a notepad, pencil and highlighter handy… Whenever you have a list - or piece of writing that you have to read – highlight the words that are important for you to see.  That way you will only have to read the whole thing once: the important pieces will be highlighted and stand out clearly for you.  Make lists, make them clear and let them help you.  Take control of your own life again – and if you need to ask something 6 times, so be it…  If they complain, show them this page!

It might help to take a list of questions with you when you visit your health professional?  Please download this list if you choose.  Highlight the questions that are useful to you and that you want to ask…

You are welcome to download the ‘Think F A S T’ handout to keep handy and remind you of the signs of stroke (Perhaps you could stick it on the wall with bluetack?  Or put it on the fridge with a magnet?)

Dr Jill Bolte-Taylor who was a neuroscientist at the time she had a massive stroke and she walks us through the whole thing...  She was totally disabled - and it took her 10 years to recover - but she did...  Watch this video.