Each letter of BE FAST stands for a different sign of stroke: Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech and Time.

• B is for balance: Loss of balance or coordination.
• E is for eyes: Changes in your vision, like losing sight in one or both eyes or starting to see double vision.
• F is for face: Drooping facial features on one side of the face.
• A is for arms (and legs): Weakness in one of your (or someone else’s) limbs. “If you raise your arms or legs and one of them drifts down, that’s a concern,” Dr. Buletko says.
• S is for speech: Slurring words or otherwise having difficulty speaking or understanding others.
• T is for time: Don’t take a “wait and see” approach. Call 911 or emergency services immediately.