In 2001, only 17 percent of adults were able to recognize all five major signs of a stroke and also knew that calling 911 for medical assistance was the first action that should be taken for someone who might be having a stroke. The five major warning signs of a stroke are 1) sudden confusion and trouble speaking or understanding; 2) sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; 3) sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; 4) sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination; and 5) sudden, severe headache with no known cause. Immediate emergency transport to the hospital and timely, appropriate care can reduce disability and death associated with stroke. The public, particularly bystanders, should be aware of the major warning signs of stroke and be willing to dial 911 for a potential stroke patient.

REF: MMWR 7-May-2004
URL: http://www.cdc.gov/od/oc/media/mmwr...40507.htm#mmwr1