Strokes occur when a brain bleed or clot cuts off oxygen to parts of the brain. Strokes can have very serious effects, but they happen very rarely to children. In most cases, they happen to older individuals.

 

These days we can do a lot to help stroke patients, but it’s important to act quickly. If you suspect someone might be having a stroke, remember FAST:

 

F - Face weakness: Stroke can cause facial weakness. Has the person’s mouth or eye drooped? Can they smile evenly?

A - Arm weakness: Stroke can cause arm weakness and numbness. Can the individual raise both arms and keep them there?

S - Speech: Stroke can cause difficulty speaking, slurred speech, and the person might sound confused. 

T - Time: Time is brain. If you see any of these signs, it is time to call 999. 

(NHS and the Stroke Association UK)

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