Stroke
Think and act F.A.S.T., the signs of stroke are:
- Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
- Arms – can they raise both their arms and keep them there?
- Speech – is their speech slurred?
- Time – time to call 999
A stroke is a serious condition that happens when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off.
Like all organs, the brain needs oxygen and nutrients from the blood to work properly. If the blood supply stops or is limited, brain cells start to die. This can cause brain damage and may even lead to death.
Strokes are medical emergencies, and quick treatment is very important. The sooner someone gets treatment for a stroke, the less damage is likely to occur.
The NHS Stroke Act FAST pages provide a lot of information about strokes. You can learn how to recognize the signs, read real stories from stroke survivors, and get advice on how to live your life after a stroke.
Chest Heart & Stroke Charity (N.Ireland)
Chest Heart & Stroke Charity (Scotland)
Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or ‘mini-stroke’, is caused by a temporary fall in the blood supply to part of the brain, leading to a lack of oxygen to the brain. This can cause symptoms that are similar to a stroke, although they don’t last as long. A TIA lasts only a few minutes and is usually resolved within 24 hours
As TIAs are serious, it is important that they are always investigated so that appropriate treatment can be given quickly. With treatment, the risk of a further TIA or a full stroke can be greatly reduced.