It is essential to take quick action and call an ambulance if you suspect someone is having a stroke.
If you have any questions that are NOT a medical emergency, you can ask a Webdoctor GP.
Think FAST with these 4 steps if you suspect a stroke
F
Face: One side of the mouth may be drooping or weak.
A
Arm: Have the person try to lift both of their arms. In the event of a stroke, there may be weakness on one side of the arm (or leg).
S
Speech: Note whether the person’s speech is normal and understandable.
T
Time: Any of the above symptoms are indicators of a stroke, and it is essential to act quickly by calling 112 or 999.
These 6 symptoms may also indicate a stroke
FAST is an easy way to remember major symptoms of stroke, but there can be other symptoms as well. These may include:
- Onset of dizziness, vertigo, or balance disorder
- Mental confusion
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision or loss of vision
- Difficulty swallowing
- Severe headache
Stroke Risk Factors
The following behaviours or medical conditions may increase your risk of having a stroke:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure or hypertension
- Diabetes, especially if not under control
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- High cholesterol
- High alcohol consumption
- Atrial fibrillation (an irregular, often rapid heart rate that can cause poor blood flow)
‘Mini Stroke’ or TIA
TIA stands for Transient Ischaemic Attack and is also known as a ‘mini stroke’. This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, but it is able to clear on its own. Symptoms are similar to a stroke, and if someone experiences TIA, he or she might also be at high risk of a stroke. Immediate medical assessment is essential.