FAST test for a Stroke

6. Time is of the essence.

The optimal time for a stroke sufferer to get treatment is within one hour of the onset of symptoms. Prompt treatment of the patient is critical for brain function; the more time is spent without oxygen to the brain, the more of the brain dies in the time lapse. Statistics show that around one in four patients makes it to the hospital within the hour and of those people who arrived within 60 minutes were 2 and ½ times more likely to be treated immediately. Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S. and number 5 on the top leading causes of death. It's right behind heart disease, cancer, lower respiratory diseases and unintentional injuries caused by accidents.