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    Stroke Warning Signs

    FAST = save lives. Memorize NOW.

    FAST signs

    • Face droop — one side of face droops.
    • Arm weakness — one arm drifts down.
    • Speech slurred or strange.
    • Time — call 911 NOW.
    • Time matters — clot busters work first 3 hours.
    • Even if symptoms go away — STILL go ER.

    Other signs

    • Sudden severe headache (worst of life).
    • Sudden vision change.
    • Sudden confusion / trouble understanding.
    • Sudden trouble walking / dizziness.
    • Sudden numbness on one side.
    • Even if mild — call 911.

    Mini-stroke (TIA)

    • Symptoms last minutes to hours.
    • Then go away.
    • STILL emergency — predicts full stroke.
    • 30% have full stroke within 90 days.
    • Don't ignore.
    • Get to ER even if feel better.

    Reduce stroke risk

    • Control BP — single biggest factor.
    • Treat AFib if have it.
    • Don't smoke.
    • Limit alcohol.
    • Exercise daily.
    • Mediterranean diet.
    • Manage diabetes + cholesterol.
    • Maintain healthy weight.

    After stroke

    • Aggressive rehab = best outcomes.
    • Physical, occupational, speech therapy.
    • Medicare covers extensively.
    • Brain rewires (neuroplasticity).
    • Recovery continues 1+ year.
    • Most return home.
    • Stroke survivor support groups.

    Apple Watch detection

    Apple Watch fall detection auto-calls 911 if you fall. Crash detection too. AFib alerts catch irregular rhythm = stroke risk warning. See /tools/apple-watch-fall-detection. Senior life saver.