A stroke occurs when brain tissue does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients due to blocked or reduced blood supply. Brain cells will begin to die, and permanent brain damage can occur. It is important that you act quickly in the event of a stroke, and think

FAST:

Face – watch to see if one side of the face droops when you ask them to smile

Arm – when lifting both arms, see if one of their arms is unable to raise as high as the other

Speech – determine if their speech is slurred or strange when they talk

Time – call 911 or seek emergency medical help immediately if you see these signs