We know that in the case of someone having a stroke, time is everything. So, it's important to be able to determine whether someone is having a stroke.

"To help people recognize the symptoms of stroke quickly, The Stroke Association has funded research into FAST - the Face Arm Speech Test - which is used by paramedics to diagnose stroke prior to a person being admitted to hospital. By diagnosing the possibility of stroke before reaching hospital, it is possible for appropriate referral to a stroke unit to be made as quickly as possible." (See www.stroke.org for more information)

What is FAST? FAST requires an assessment of three specific symptoms of stroke.

• Facial weakness - can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
• Arm weakness - can the person raise both arms?
• Speech problems - can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
• Time to call 999