October 29th is World Stroke Day.
Each year in the UK, over 100,000 people have a stroke. A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off. Blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to your brain. Without blood your brain cells can be damaged or die. This damage can have different effects, depending on where it happens in your brain. Strokes can affect anyone, at any age.
When somebody has a stroke, every second that goes by is crucial. As brain tissue and millions of neurons begin to fade away, time could not be more precious. The #Precioustime campaign aims to raise awareness of stroke signs and the benefits of timely access to emergency medical care.
Stroke is a medical emergency. The FAST test can help you recognise the signs.
- Facial weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
- Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms?
- Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
- Time to call 999: if you see any of these signs.
Acting FAST will give the person having a stroke the best chance of survival and recovery. Always call 999 straight away.
