Stroke
Many people often think a stroke happens in the heart, but it happens in the brain. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.
A stroke can happen to anyone, of any age, at any time. Every five minutes in the UK there is a stroke striking and it is vital to know the warning signs.
Signs and symptoms
- 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
.
The main symptoms of stroke can be remembered with the word FAST:
Face – the face may have dropped on 1 side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped.
Arms – the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in 1 arm.
Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake; they may also have problems understanding what you're saying to them.
Time – it's time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms.
What do you need to do?
You can significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke by:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Taking regular exercise
- Not smoking
- Not drinking excessively (no more than 14 units a week on a regular basis)
- Controlling your cholesterol
- Monitoring your blood pressure
- Losing weight if you need to.
If you have been subscribed medicine for lowering high blood pressure or cholesterol levels, make sure you take it.
