急诊 · 4 min read
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Use FAST
Face: ask the person to smile and look for one-sided drooping. Arms: ask them to raise both arms and look for weakness or drift. Speech: listen for slurred, confused or absent speech. Time: if any sign is present, call emergency services immediately and note when the person was last known well.
Other sudden signs
Stroke can also cause sudden loss of vision, severe imbalance, numbness or weakness on one side, confusion, or a severe unusual headache. Symptoms that disappear may be a transient ischaemic attack and still need emergency assessment.
What to do while waiting
Keep the person safe and follow emergency-dispatch instructions. Do not give food, drink, aspirin or other medicine unless directed by a healthcare professional. Do not drive yourself if emergency transport is available.
At a glance
Key takeaways
- Any FAST sign is enough to call emergency services.
- Record the time symptoms started or the person was last known well.
- Do not wait to see whether symptoms improve.
When to seek care
- Call emergency services immediately for any sudden FAST sign or other sudden neurological change.
- Symptoms that resolve still require urgent emergency assessment.
General information only. This article does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek urgent medical care. In Malaysia, call 999 for an emergency or go to the nearest emergency department.
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