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Neurologyโฑ 4 min read๐Ÿ“… 10 January 2026

FAST: Recognising Stroke Symptoms and Acting Immediately

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Dr. Kannah Elangovan

Neurosurgeon ยท Iswarya Hospital

Every minute counts during a stroke. Learn the FAST acronym and understand why rapid treatment is critical for full recovery.

A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Brain cells begin dying within minutes. Knowing the FAST signs can save a life.


F โ€“ Face Drooping

Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? Is the smile uneven?


A โ€“ Arm Weakness

Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?


S โ€“ Speech Difficulty

Is the speech slurred, strange, or hard to understand?


T โ€“ Time to Call Emergency

If any of these signs are present, call emergency services immediately.


Other Stroke Signs

  • Sudden severe headache
  • Vision problems in one or both eyes
  • Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg
  • Sudden confusion or trouble understanding

  • The Golden Hour

    Treatment within 4.5 hours of symptom onset with clot-busting drugs (thrombolysis) can significantly reduce brain damage.


    At Iswarya Hospital

    Our neuro ICU, stroke management team, and 24ร—7 emergency services are ready to act fast. Do not wait โ€” call 044 2025 2025 immediately.

    Tags:

    #stroke#neurology#emergency#FAST

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