A stroke occurs when there's bleeding into your brain or when normal blood flow to your brain is blocked. Within minutes of being deprived of essential nutrients, brain cells start dying a process that may continue over the next several hours. In the event of a possible stroke, use FAST to help remember warning signs. - Face. Does the face droop on one side trying to smile? - Arms. Is one arm lower when trying to raise both arms? - Speech. Can a simple sentence be repeated? Is speech slurred or strange? - Time. During a stroke every minute counts. If you observe any of these signs, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately Other signs and symptoms of a stroke include: -Weakness or numbness on one side of your body including either leg - Dimness, blurring or loss of vision, particularly in one eye - Severe headache a bolt out of the blue with no apparent cause - Unexplained dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall, especially if accompanied by any of the other signs or symptoms. For any symptoms call 911 immediately, as prompt medical attention can prevent a fatal or disabling stroke from occurring. The following steps are the instructions what you should do if you suspect someone is having a stroke, and by following these steps, you will go along way to helping a stroke victim survive. I know this is a long topic but it can help you to save someone's life. 1)Check RESPONSE: - Ask the person their name. If someone has had a stroke, they may not be able to talk, so grasp both their hands and ask them to squeeze they may respond by squeezing one of your hands. - Does the person respond? If so, they are conscious: follow the directions at the end of the page while you wait for help to arrive. - If the person does not respond, they are probably unconscious. Make sure someone has dialled for an ambulance, then continue.