A stroke can change a life in an instant. In the minutes after symptoms begin, quick action can help protect the brain, reduce long-term disability and save a life, according to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association. In rural communities, where EMS responses can be delayed and minutes matter, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and seek treatment quickly.
On average, nearly 2 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated, making early recognition and treatment critical. During May, American Stroke Month, the Stroke Association is highlighting the importance of recognizing stroke warning signs and understanding how early treatment and prevention can make a meaningful difference when it matters most.
Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States. Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke. A stroke can happen to anyone, at any age.
3 things you can do to take action against stroke:
1. Learn B.E. F.A.S.T. to spot a stroke. If you see sudden Balance loss, Eye or vision changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness or Speech difficulty, it’s time to call 911. Explore the signs by playing the B.E. F.A.S.T. Experience at Stroke.org/StrokeMonth.
2. Understand your stroke risk and explore ways to lower it. Identifying personal risk factors — especially high blood pressure, the leading risk factor for stroke — can help you have informed conversations with your health care team about stroke prevention and long‑term brain health.
3. Find support after stroke. Recovery is a journey and connection matters. Explore support services for survivors and care partners, including virtual Stroke Meetups, and sign up for the Stroke Connection e‑newsletter at Stroke.org/StrokeMonth.
Recognize Stroke Warning Signs: B.E. F.A.S.T.
When a stroke happens, blood flow to the brain is interrupted. The longer treatment is delayed, the greater the risk of lasting damage. Calling 911 is the fastest way to get stroke care. EMS can begin treatment immediately and alert the hospital stroke team before you arrive. Rural hospital staff are trained to provide rapid stroke evaluation and treatment and play a key role in stabilizing patients for transport to stroke-capable hospitals for surgical treatment options.
B.E. F.A.S.T. is a simple way to remember common stroke warning signs:
• Balance Loss – Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of coordination
• Eye (Vision) Changes – Sudden vision loss or trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Face Drooping – One side of the face droops or feels numb; a smile may look uneven
• Arm Weakness – One arm feels weak or numb or drifts downward when raised
• Speech Difficulty – Slurred speech or trouble speaking
• Time to Call 911 – If someone shows any of these signs, even if symptoms go away, calling 911 right away can help get lifesaving care started. Noting when symptoms first appeared can also support treatment decisions.
Take steps to prevent stroke
According to the Heart Association and the Stroke Association, approximately 80% of strokes are preventable. High blood pressure is the leading risk factor for stroke, and uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes and obesity significantly increase risk.
