What does stroke stand for

Sometimes stroke symptoms are less obvious. But many people — even medical professionals — have trouble recognizing symptoms outside the classic warning signs. While women display the typical signs of stroke, they also report a set of symptoms all their own. These symptoms happen just as unexpectedly as the others:.

No, really. A stroke is a medical emergency. The stroke victim needs treatment right away. That requires quick thinking and action on your part. The medical community developed a simple test using the acronym F. If you think someone is suffering a stroke, give them this test:. Does one side of the face droop?

Is the smile uneven? Does one arm drift downward? Can they lift one arm higher than the other? That signals weakness on one side of their body. Did they slur? Did their speech sound strange? Could they even repeat the phrase? Trouble speaking is a tell-tale sign of stroke. Most of these later health problems happen within just days or weeks of the TIA, so early interventions to reduce risk are vital.

If you or someone with you is experiencing these or other stroke symptoms, urgent medical evaluation and treatment are needed. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared. Learn more about diagnosing and treating and preventing another TIA or severe stroke. The effects of a stroke depend on several factors, including the location of the obstruction and how much brain tissue is affected.

However, because one side of the brain controls the opposite side of the body, a stroke affecting one side will result in neurological complications on the side of the body it affects. Learn more about the physical and emotional effects of stroke. While strokes can vary in type and severity, many patients and their loved ones have been where you are now — facing important decisions about rehab that must be made quickly. Stroke recovery can seem overwhelming, but rehabilitation can help you regain your strength, your courage and your independence.

Stroke is dangerous and deadly — the No. But you can control and treat several risk factors for stroke. Learn more about your risk factors and how to possibly prevent a first or second stroke.

In leading causes of U. Now it's fifth. The higher survival rates are largely due to medical treatment advances. The right care — done the right away — can save both lives and quality of life. Learn more about types of stroke and how they are treated. Home About Stroke Stroke Symptoms. Stroke Symptoms By learning and sharing the F. Call if these signs are present.

Warning Signs Use the letters in F. Be prepared — Learn more about the stroke warning signs and symptoms. On average, 1. If you have a condition that increases your risk of a stroke, it's important to manage it effectively.

For example, taking medicine you have been prescribed to lower high blood pressure or cholesterol levels. If you have had a stroke or TIA in the past, these measures are particularly important because your risk of having another stroke is greatly increased.

Stroke does not just affect adults. Every year around children in the UK have a stroke, according to the Stroke Association. Read more about childhood stroke on the Stroke Association website.

Our guide to care and support explains your options and where you can get support. This animation explains how a stroke happens and how lifestyle changes may help to reduce the risks.

Page last reviewed: 15 August Next review due: 15 August Strokes are a medical emergency and urgent treatment is essential. It's still important to get medical help if you need it.

Do not delay if you feel very unwell or think there's something seriously wrong. Call Information: Coronavirus advice If you have had a stroke and you're worried about coronavirus, you can get advice about coronavirus and stroke from the Stroke Association.