We are very grateful to Different Strokes for their contribution to our on-air report, which you can hear again via the audio player below.
Strokes are very common. In the UK, over 100,000 people have a stroke or mini-stroke every year. Most people who have strokes are over 65, but one in four strokes happen in younger people. That’s nearly 40,000 people a year including several hundred children.
What is a stroke? A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, killing brain cells. Damage to the brain can affect how the body works. It can also change how you think and feel.
The effects of a stroke depend on where it takes place in the brain, and how big the damaged area is.
Different types of stroke. There are three different types of stroke; ischaemic strokes, haemorrhagic strokes and transient ischemic attacks.
What causes stroke? As we age, our arteries become harder and narrower and more likely to become blocked. However, certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors can speed up this process and increase your risk of having a stroke.
Can you recover from stroke? All strokes are different. For some people the effects may be relatively minor and may not last long. Others may be left with more serious problems that make them dependent on other people.
Unfortunately not everyone survives – around one in eight people die within 30 days of having a stroke. That’s why it’s so important to be able to recognise the symptoms and get medical help as quickly as possible.
The quicker you receive treatment, the better your chances for a good recovery. The effects of a stroke depend on where it takes place in the brain, and how big the damaged area is.
Stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK. It can happen to anyone, of any age, at any time.
It's vital to know how to spot the warning signs of a stroke in yourself or someone else.
The F.A.S.T. test helps to spot the three most common symptoms of stroke. Using the FAST test (see below) is the best way to do this.
Face: Can the person smile? Has their face fallen on one side?
Arms: Can the person raise both arms and keep them there?
Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred?
T – TIME TO GET HELP -if you notice any of these symptoms, call 999 and get the person to a hospital immediately.
But there are other signs that you should always take seriously. These include:
Listen to this weeks radio report
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