The acronym "FAST" is a useful way to remember the main symptoms of a stroke and the critical action needed when a stroke is suspected. Here’s what each letter stands for:

F – Face Drooping: One side of the face droops or is numb. Ask the person to smile, and check if the smile is uneven.

A – Arm Weakness: One arm is weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms, and see if one arm drifts downward.

S – Speech Difficulty: Speech may be slurred, hard to understand, or completely lost. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence like "The sky is blue," and check if they can do it correctly.

T – Time to Call Emergency Services: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if they go away, it's crucial to call emergency services immediately. Every second counts in treating a stroke.

Early recognition and action can make a significant difference in the outcome of a stroke.