skip to main content
damha logo: click for home page
 

Stroke awareness: know the signs, act F.A.S.T.

  • HAS THEIR FACE FALLEN ON ONE SIDE?
  • CAN THEY SMILE?
  • CAN THEY RAISE BOTH ARMS AND KEEP THEM THERE?
  • IS THEIR SPEECH SLURRED?
  • TIME TO CALL 999 IF YOU SEE ANY SINGLE ONE OF THESE SIGNS

Did you know an estimated 150,000 people have a stroke in the UK each year which results in over 67,000 deaths? This makes strokes the third most common cause of death in England and Wales, after heart disease and cancer. Recognising the signs of a stroke and calling 999 for an ambulance is crucial. The good news is that the sooner somebody who is having a stroke gets urgent medical attention, the better their chances of a good recovery.

Some people are more at risk of having a stroke if they also have certain other medical conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, an irregular heartbeat and diabetes; so it is important that these conditions are carefully monitored and treated. Leading a healthy active lifestyle is vital to help reduce your risk of having a stroke.

The Department of Health’s F.A.S.T. Stroke Awareness campaign have put together some information about the four key signs of a stroke. If you see any one of these signs, the person may be having a stroke. It’s time to call 999.