RECOGNIZING A STROKE -

Symptoms of a stroke can be difficult to identify. Yet fast action in getting help for a stroke victim can mean the difference between recovery and devastation. The stroke victim may suffer brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

1. Ask the individual to SMILE.
2. Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
3. Ask the person to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE coherently and listen to make sure that what they say makes sense.

If you see someone stumble, or hear them speak garbled words, immediately try the three question test. If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, call 911 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

After discovering that a group of non-medical volunteers could identify facial weakness, arm weakness and speech problems, researchers urged the general public to learn the three questions. They presented their conclusions to the American Stroke Association. Widespread use of this test could result in prompt diagnosis and treatment of the stroke and prevent brain damage.