Stroke Symptoms
Experiencing stroke symptoms? Call 9-1-1 immediately!
B.E. F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of stroke. When you can spot the signs, you'll know that you need to call 9-1-1 for help right away.
B.E. F.A.S.T. is:
Balance loss – Does the person have a sudden loss of balance?
Eyesight changes – Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?
Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?
Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a sentence like "The sky is blue." Is it repeated correctly?
Time to call 9-1-1 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.
Other Stroke Symptoms
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- Sudden confusion
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking or loss of balance
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
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Learn more stroke signs and symptoms.
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Acute Stroke Ready Hospital Certification
Starr Regional Medical Center has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Acute Stroke Ready Hospital Certification.
Starr Regional Medical Center underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review in April 2025. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including program management, supporting self-management, and delivering and facilitating clinical care. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every 40 seconds, someone has a stroke in the United States. When a stroke occurs, every minute matters. Starr Regional Medical Center provides 24/7 emergency care close to home, including higher levels of stroke care as a Joint Commission Acute Stroke Ready Hospital Certification.
Remember: Call 9-1-1
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. EMS staff are trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.