A stroke can be described as a brain attack and may occur as a result of either a blockage or bleed within one or more of the blood vessels that supply the brain with oxygenated blood. When brain cells do not receive sufficient oxygen they will start to shut down and die
Weakness
Numbness and paralysis to one side of the body (face, arms and/or legs)
Difficult in speaking and swallowing
Headache
Confusion
Vomiting
Blurred vision
Using the simple acronym of ‘FAST’ can help us to recognise if a stroke has occurred:
Facial Weakness – Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
Arms – Ask them to try to raise both arms above their head
Speech – Can the casualty speak clearly and understand what you say?
Time – It is time for us to take action to help the casualty
Provide reassurance
If the casualty is conscious encourage and assist them to sit with their head and shoulders gently raised and their legs flat
Monitor the casualty until further help arrives
If unconscious but breathing normally, gently roll them onto their side (recovery position) ensuring that their head is tilted gently back