World Stroke Day 29 October: Every M1nute Counts
Every five minutes in the UK, someone has a stroke. Stroke is a devastating brain injury that can leave people with life-changing effects.
Mums, dads, grandparents, young people and even children can be left unable to move, see, speak or even swallow. It can have a profound impact on stroke survivors and their families.
Every year, 12 million people worldwide experience a stroke. That’s one every two seconds.
Every M1nute Counts
A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. It can happen suddenly and without warning, and getting treatment quickly is vital. This World Stroke Day, we’re joining the worldwide campaign to raise awareness of the signs of stroke and the importance of acting FAST.
Members of our Stroke team from Cheltenham have also been out and about locally on World Stroke Day, taking shoppers’ blood pressure and raising awareness of stroke. Knowing how to spot the signs and raise the alarm is an essential first step in making sure someone gets the treatment they need as quickly as possible.
Know the signs of stroke: Act FAST
F – Face: Has the person's face fallen on one side? Can they smile, or has their mouth or eye drooped?
A – Arms: Can the person raise both arms and keep them there, or does one arm drift downwards?
S – Speech: Is their speech slurred or garbled, or are they unable to talk despite appearing awake? Can they understand what you are saying?
T – Time: It is time to call 999 immediately if you notice even one of these signs, even if you are not sure or the symptoms seem to go away.
Support after a stroke
In the UK, the Stroke Association provides information and support for stroke survivors and their families, helping people affected by stroke with their recovery and life after stroke.