STROKE The more you know, the better.

What is a Stroke? A stroke occurs when a blood vessel, which is carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain, bursts or is blocked by a clot.

THIS CAUSES AN INTERRUPTION OF THE BLOOD SUPPLY TO PART OF THE BRAIN. THIS CAN DAMAGE OR DESTROY BRAIN CELLS WHICH WILL AFFECT BODY FUNCTIONS.

A stroke is a medical emergency. Therefore, recognising the symptoms and accessing treatment immediately can be crucial.

The term ‘stroke’ comes from the fact that it usually happens without warning, ‘striking’ the person from out of the blue. The effects of a stroke on the body are immediate.

Very treatable if action is taken quickly.

Until recently many people, including doctors, believed little or nothing could be done following a stroke. We now know strokes are very treatable and, if the right actions are taken quickly, the patient may not have any long term effects.

 One in five people, and at any age.

One in five people will have a stroke at some time in their life. Most are over 65, but stroke can strike at any age. Even young people and children can be affected.

The more you know, the better.

A stroke could happen to you, a friend or family member. If it does, the more you know about stroke the better you will be able to deal with the consequences.

What is a TIA or a ‘mini-stroke’?

TIA stands for transient ischaemic attack. It is also known as a mini-stroke and happens when the brain’s blood supply is briefly interrupted, usually for a few minutes but occasionally as long as 24 hours.

A mini-stroke may cause a brief loss of vision, loss of speech, or weakness in one side of the body. People will usually recover within a few minutes and won’t have any obvious disability.

TIA should be treated as an emergency and you should seek urgent medical attention for assessment. Without assessment and treatment, about one in four people who have had a TIA will go on to have a full-blown stroke within a few years.

TIAs are caused by small clots. A large clot causes a stroke. A mini-stroke is a warning that there is a risk of more TIAs, or a full blown stroke.

When Stroke Strikes, Act F.A.S.T.

A simple test can help you recognise if someone has had a stroke:

Facial weakness – can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?

Arm weakness – can the person raise both arms?

Speech problems – can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?

Time – call 999 for an ambulance if you spot any one of these signs.

Every minute counts. Don’t wait for the symptoms to go away. Early medical treatment can prevent further damage to the brain and reduce the likelihood of death and disability.

It is also recommended, especially if you live in a rural area, to know your Eircode so that emergency services can find your home or workplace instantly.

You can view and share Act F.A.S.T. awareness campaign advert here: https://youtu.be/_PW4rhZokS8