Stroke Warning Signs & Risk Factors

Awareness is critical when it comes to preventing and detecting a stroke. Even just a few minutes can make a big difference. Be prepared by learning about the risk factors and warning signs.

Stroke Risk Factors

Risk factors that may increase your chance of experiencing a stroke include:

• Diabetes
• Excessive use of alcohol
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Lifestyle issues, including obesity and lack of exercise
• Smoking

Stroke Warning Signs

Strokes can happen to anyone of any age at any time. Recognizing the signs of a stroke and taking action can save a life. If any of the symptoms below occur, seek help immediately by calling 911 or your local Avera emergency department.

BE FAST is an easy way to remember and recognize the sudden signs of stroke. BE FAST stands for:

• B – Sudden BALANCE loss
• E – Sudden EYESIGHT loss
• F – FACE drooping
• A – ARM weakness
• S – SPEECH difficulty
• T – TIME to call 911

Learn more about stroke warning signs and symptoms from the American Stroke Association.

BE FAST was developed by Intermountain Healthcare, as an adaptation of the FAST model implemented by the American Stroke Association. Reproduced with permission from Intermountain Healthcare. Copyright 2011, Intermountain Healthcare.