Travel Health Guide · Emergency Series

Stroke Signs for Tourists in Mexico — Use the F.A.S.T. Test, Call Immediately

Stroke is a time-critical emergency where every minute matters. International travel adds risk (dehydration, long flights, altitude changes). Knowing the F.A.S.T. test and what to do can prevent permanent disability.

F.A.S.T. — the universal stroke test

Face: ask the person to smile. Does one side droop? Arms: ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift down? Speech: ask them to repeat a simple phrase. Is it slurred? Time: any of these signs equals call immediately. Note the exact time symptoms started.

Other stroke warning signs

Sudden severe headache (worst of life), sudden loss of vision in one eye, sudden severe dizziness, sudden confusion, sudden weakness on one side, sudden trouble walking.

Why time matters so much

Clot-busting medications (tPA) are most effective within 3-4.5 hours of symptom onset. Mechanical clot removal up to 24 hours in selected patients. The leading private hospital in Los Cabos has stroke protocols.

What to do

Call 911 AND our 24/7 line in parallel. Note exact time of first symptom. Do not give the patient anything by mouth. Move them to safety only if needed. Stay with them until help arrives.

FAQ

Can a private hospital in Cabo treat stroke?

The leading private hospital has stroke protocols including imaging (CT/MRI) and clot-busting medications. Some advanced interventions may need transfer.

What if I think it is just a migraine?

Call. Even if it is migraine, you want to rule out stroke.

How fast does the ambulance need to arrive?

As fast as possible — but the bigger issue is calling quickly.

What about TIA (mini-stroke)?

Symptoms resolve but it is a major warning. Still needs immediate evaluation.

After stroke, what about flying home?

Repatriation when stable. Recovery hospital at home for ongoing rehab.

Important medical note: This article is general information for travelers and is not medical advice. For an immediate life-threatening emergency in Mexico, call 911 first. For coordination of urgent care, hospital escalation, ground or air ambulance, or medical repatriation home to the USA or Canada, call our 24/7 bilingual line. Cabo Walk-In Clinic is COFEPRIS-licensed in Mexico; hospital and specialist care is delivered by an independent licensed hospital and its physicians. Travel-insurance reimbursement depends on your policy and your insurer’s review.