Origin of BE FAST
FAST is an acronym that has been used for a while now as a mnemonic to help detect and enhance responsiveness to a person's needs having a stroke. The acronym stands for Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services. With advancing technology, better facilities, and treatment, 2 more alphabets have been added to this acronym, making it BE FAST.
What does BE FAST stand for?
Balance – Is the person able to walk unaided? Are they experiencing a sudden loss of balance or coordination?
Eyes – Are they experiencing a sudden blurred or double vision? Is there persistent vision trouble?
Face – When smiling, is one or both sides of the face drooping?
Arms – When both arms are raised, does one side drift downward? Is there weakness or numbness on one side? The A doesn't stand for only arms but encompasses both limbs.
Speech – Is the person slurring or speaking in a garbled way? Are they able to repeat simple words and phrases?
Time – Immediate medical attention is essential if one or more of these signs manifest. Note down, time of symptoms.
Dr. Bhuvaneshwari Rajendran stresses the importance of taking quick steps if any of these symptoms manifest and get the patient to the hospital immediately.
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