Stroke

Stroke Awareness, Recognise Symptoms, Act FAST to Save a Life!

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, but timely action can save lives. Learn to spot the symptoms and how you can help prevent stroke.

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. There are different types of strokes, each requiring urgent care to minimise damage.

Types of Stroke:

  • Ischemic Stroke, a blockage of an artery in the brain, the most common type.
  • Haemorrhagic Stroke, when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding in the surrounding tissue.
  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often called a mini stroke.  TIA is a temporary blockage, but it serves as an important warning sign. This must not be overlooked and urgent treatment within 24 hours from the hospital emergency department must be sought, even if the symptoms have stopped.

Recognising a Stroke – Act FAST

F          Face drooping, Is one side of the face drooping or numb? Ask the person to smile.

A          Arm weakness, Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms.

S          Speech difficulty, Is speech slurred, or is the person unable to speak or hard to understand?

T          Time to call emergency services, If you notice any of these symptoms, call 999 immediately.

How Can You a Prevent Stroke?

  • Up to 90% of strokes are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices and managing medical conditions.
  • Manage blood pressure, high blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke.
  • Checking your pulse for an irregular rhythm.  An irregular rhythm could indicate a condition called Atrial Fibrillation or AF.  AF is a major risk factor for a heavy stroke and can easily be treated to prevent a stroke from happening.
  • See video and information for how to check your pulse.
  • Maintain a healthy diet, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods.
  • Exercise regularly, aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
  • Stop smoking, smoking doubles your stroke risk.
  • Limit alcohol consumption, excessive drinking will increase blood pressure and the risk of developing AF.

Are you at risk of stroke?Major risk factors                                       

  • High blood pressure
  • Atrial fibrillation,  (irregular pulse)
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease
  • Family history of stroke
school nurse, stethoscope, a heart

What to do in an emergency, EVERY SECOND COUNTS! – CALL 999

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, don’t wait.  Immediate action can save a life and prevent further brain damage.

Emergency Steps

Call emergency services immediately.

Do not give the person food or water.

Stay with the person and keep them calm.

Note the time symptoms started – this helps doctors in treatment.

Life after stroke – recovery and support

Stroke recovery, finding hope and support surviving a stroke is just the beginning. Recovery often involves therapy, lifestyle changes, and emotional support for both survivors and caregivers.

Where can I get my blood pressure checked?

  • Local pharmacies will check your blood pressure and pulse free of charge. People aged over 40 without existing high blood pressure already being treated should have their blood pressure checked at least every 5 years, more often if high blood pressure, heart disease and strokes run in the family.
  • Your GP Practice Nurse can complete a full check, called an NHS Health Check. You must be aged 40-74 and do not already have one of the risk factor conditions mentioned above.
  • If you are not eligible for an NHS Health Check as you already have one of the conditions, your GP will contact you annually for a full check-up. Make sure you attend these check-ups when offered to you.
  • If you are not eligible for an NHS Health Check and do not have one of these conditions, your GP practice will also see you to check your blood pressure and other risk factors.  Blood pressure should be checked at least every 5 years for those aged 40 and over.

For more information about stroke prevention and local support groups.