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.