Act fast if you suspect that someone is having a stroke

by Dr. Adam Seigers, Medical Health Contributor

May is national stroke awareness month. A stroke is a disruption in blood flow to the brain.

Recognizing a stroke is the most critical part in treating it. The simple acronym FAST can help one remember the steps in stroke recognition.

“F” stands for facial droop. When smiling, does one side of the face droop or sag? “A” stands for arms. Does an arm or leg seem to be numb or have difficulty moving?

“S” stands for speech. Does speech seem difficult, non-fluent or is there a lack of comprehension?

“T” stands for time, which is important in stroke recognition. Calling 911 promptly can assure proper care within the three hour window needed to treat and possibly reverse most strokes with the so-called clot buster medications.

In our area, Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare is the designated stroke center. So in summary,  if you or someone you know is suspected to be having a stroke think “FAST.”

For more information please contact your primary care provider.

Dr. Adam Seigers is a physician with Faxton St. Luke’s Adirondack Community Physicians (ACP) Boonville Medical Offices on Route 12.

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