How many times have you heard an acronym and immediately forgotten what it meant? Probably more times than you can count.
When it comes to your health, though, there is one acronym that you need to remember: F.A.S.T. Keep reading to learn about what it means during a stroke and why it is so crucial during a stroke.
What Does F.A.S.T. Mean?
When it comes to strokes, the faster you can get medical attention, the better your chances of survival. F.A.S.T. is an acronym that stands for:
F: Face drooping
A: Arm weakness
S: Speech difficulties
T: Time to call 911
If you see any of these signs in yourself or someone else, you must call 911 right away. The sooner a stroke is identified, the better the chance of preventing long-term damage.
What Happens During a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood flow to your brain is cut off. This can happen due to a blockage or a bleed. When this happens, the part of your brain not receiving oxygen begins to die. This is why it is so important to get medical attention as soon as possible; the more time passes, the more damage can be done.
How Can I Prevent a Stroke?
There are many things you can do to prevent a stroke, such as:
- Quitting smoking
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Controlling your cholesterol
- Managing your blood pressure
Additionally, if you have diabetes or a family history of strokes, it is vital to keep your blood sugar under control through proper diet and exercise.
