PSA: Recognizing a Stroke

Public Service Announcement time, friends.

A (33 year old!) classmate of mine recently suffered a stroke, or a series of small strokes. He's recovering at home now, but the extent of damage is yet to be determined.

One of the ways to minimize the effects of a stroke is through quick medical attention - and regular folks like you and me can help...
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RECOGNIZING A STROKE

S *Ask the individual to SMILE.

T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently)
(i.e. It is sunny out today). Ask the person to 'stick' out his TONGUE. If the tongue is 'crooked' - if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke.

R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call 911 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.