Although stroke is a disease of the brain, it can affect the entire body. The effects of a stroke range from mild to severe and can include paralysis, problems with thinking, problems with speaking, and emotional problems. Patients may also experience pain or numbness after a stroke. 

One of the reasons why stroke is a leading cause of death and disability is a lack of awareness of the signs and symptoms of stroke and what to do when they are encountered. 

Call 911 immediately if you or a loved one experience the symptoms of stroke. The sooner you arrive at the hospital, the better the outcome. Every minute counts!


  • F is for facial numbness or weakness, especially on one side. Ask the person to smile. Does their face look uneven? 
  • A is for arm numbness or weakness, especially on one side. Can the person raise both arms? Does one arm drift down or is it unable to move? 
  • S is for slurred speech, or difficulty speaking or understanding. Does the person's speech sound strange or are they unable to speak? 

Additional Symptoms

The signs of stroke are distinct because they happen quickly.
  • ​Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body). 
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech. 
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes. 
  • Sudden severe headache with no known cause.