Every year on the 29th of October, World Stroke Day brings people together to raise awareness of stroke, from prevention and treatment to recovery and the long-term impact it can have on people’s lives.
Knowing the signs of a stroke could help you recognise when someone needs urgent medical attention. A stroke can happen suddenly and can affect anyone, at any age, so understanding what to look out for is important.
This World Stroke Day, we’re helping to raise awareness of the symptoms and the simple FAST test.
What are the signs of a stroke?
The signs of a stroke generally appear suddenly. Some of the main symptoms include weakness in the face, weakness or numbness in an arm, and problems with speech.
One of the easiest ways to remember the main warning signs is FAST:
F – Face: Has one side of the person’s face drooped? Can they smile?
A – Arms: Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
S – Speech: Is their speech slurred or are they having difficulty communicating clearly?
T – Time: It’s time to call 999 if you notice any one of these signs.
Recognising these signs of a stroke and seeking emergency medical help straight away is vital.
Are there other stroke symptoms?
FAST helps us remember three of the most common stroke symptoms, but there can be other warning signs too.
According to the NHS and Stroke Association, these can include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Blurred vision or loss of sight
- Difficulty finding words or speaking clearly
- Sudden confusion or memory loss
- Dizziness, unsteadiness or falling
- A sudden, severe headache
- Feeling or being sick
Symptoms can sometimes disappear after a short period. However, this could indicate a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a mini-stroke, which also requires urgent medical attention.
If you think you or somebody else is having, or has had, a stroke, call 999 immediately. The NHS also advises that you should call 999 if you’ve experienced signs of a stroke within the last 24 hours, even if the symptoms have stopped.
Why World Stroke Day matters
Taking place every year on 29 October, World Stroke Day is an opportunity to improve understanding of stroke and its impact. In the UK, someone has a stroke every five minutes.
For 2026, the global World Stroke Day campaign focuses on the message “Every Minute Counts”, encouraging people to recognise stroke symptoms and act quickly.
That’s why knowing the signs of a stroke is so important. The more people who understand FAST and know when to call 999, the better prepared our communities can be when an emergency happens.
Supporting someone after a stroke
The effects of a stroke can be different for everyone. The Stroke Association provides information and support for stroke survivors and their families, including guidance relating to symptoms, causes, prevention and rehabilitation.
World Stroke Day is therefore not only an opportunity to learn the signs of a stroke, but also to recognise the experiences of people living with the effects of stroke, their families and those supporting them.
This World Stroke Day, remember FAST
This World Stroke Day, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the signs:
Face. Arms. Speech. Time.
Knowing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly could make an important difference.
For further information about stroke symptoms, visit the NHS guidance on stroke symptoms or Stroke Association’s stroke signs and symptoms guidance.
If someone you love requires some extra care after experiencing a stroke, please contact us today and we can chat you through how we can help.
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