Stroke

Overview

A stroke is when blood stops flowing to a part of your brain. It can affect things like speech and movement, and take a long time to recover. A stroke needs urgent medical help in hospital because it can be life-threatening.

Symptoms

FAST: Face drooping; Arms weakness; Speech difficulties; Time to call 999.

Causes

Blood clot (ischaemic) or bleed (haemorrhagic) in brain. High BP; Smoking.

Treatment

Thrombolysis (clot buster); Thrombectomy (clot removal); Surgery; Rehab.

Prevention

Healthy diet; Exercise; Stop smoking; Control BP/Cholesterol.

When to see a doctor

CALL 999 IMMEDIATELY if: you suspect a stroke (FAST).