Stroke Prevention: Know the Signs, Act FAST – Cllr James Pratt

Stroke is a serious medical emergency, and recognising the signs early can make all the difference. I recently spoke with Ralph, a stroke nurse and charge nurse at Leighton Hospital, who highlighted some crucial stroke prevention information that everyone in our community should be aware of.

Act FAST: Every Second Counts

The Act FAST message is vital in recognising and responding to a stroke. The sooner medical help is received, the better the chances of recovery and reducing long-term disability. If you notice any of the following symptoms in yourself or someone else, act immediately:

✅ Face – Has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
✅ Arms – Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
✅ Speech – Is their speech slurred or difficult to understand?
✅ Time – If you notice any of these signs, call 999 immediately.

Even if symptoms seem to pass quickly, never ignore a funny turn—seek medical help straight away.

Five Simple Steps to Reduce Stroke Risk

1️⃣ Get your blood pressure and pulse checked – High blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation) are major risk factors for stroke. Regular check-ups could save your life.

2️⃣ Know the FAST test – Familiarise yourself with the symptoms so you can act quickly if needed.

3️⃣ Share the FAST test – Make sure your friends, family, and colleagues know how to recognise the signs of a stroke. Spreading awareness could help save a life.

4️⃣ Adopt a healthy lifestyle – Eating a balanced diet, staying active, and reducing alcohol intake can help lower your risk of stroke.

5️⃣ Quit smoking – Smoking increases the likelihood of stroke. If you need support to quit, local stop-smoking services can help.

Learn More

For more information on stroke prevention and recognising the signs, visit:
🔗 NHS Act FAST
🔗 The Stroke Association

By understanding the risks and taking action, we can help protect ourselves and our loved ones from stroke. Let’s work together to raise awareness and make a difference in our community.