Stroke Awareness Month
UNDERSTANDING A STROKE
A stroke can happen to anyone, of any age, at any time. It's vital to know how to spot the warning signs of a stroke in yourself or someone else. The FAST test is the best way to do this.
FACE: Can the person smile? Has their face fallen on one side?
ARMS: Can the person raise both arms and keep them there?
SPEECH PROBLEMS: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred?
TIME: If you see any of these three signs, it's time to call 999.
There is no way of knowing if symptoms will pass or get better when they first start, so you need to seek immediate medical help. Always dial 999. The quicker the person arrives at a specialist stroke unit, the quicker they will receive appropriate treatment.
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF STROKE
The FAST test helps to spot the three most common symptoms of stroke. But there are other signs that you should always take seriously.
These include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, including legs, hands or feet.
- Difficulty finding words or speaking in clear sentences.
- Sudden blurred vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes.
- Sudden memory loss or confusion, and dizziness; or a sudden fall.
- A sudden, severe headache.
If you spot any of these signs of a stroke, don't wait. Call 999 straight away.
Ambulance paramedics are trained in stroke, and will take the person to the best hospital for specialist treatment.
PREVENTING A STROKE
Most strokes can be prevented. Simple things you can do to reduce the risk of a having a stroke:
• Stop Smoking
• Drink less Alcohol
• Stay a healthy weight
• Eat a healthy diet
• Do more physical activity
HOW MUCH ACTIVITY?
To stay healthy the Chief Medical Officer recommends Adults aged 19-64 should try to be active daily and should do:
• At least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as cycling or fast walking every week (this can be broken down into 30 minutes a day, in bouts of 10 mins or more, over 5 days)
• Muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups.
Stroke Helpline: 0303 303 3100 / helpline@stroke.org.uk