May is Stroke Awareness Month
This year the Stroke Association has launched its “Save research. Rebuild lives” campaign stating “Every stroke survivor’s life is worth living. That’s why stroke research is worth saving”.
A stroke is a medical emergency and happens when the blood flow to part of the brain is cut off. It can affect a person’s speech, movement, memory and vision. Treatment will depend on whether a stroke is caused by a blood clot blocking the flow of blood to the brain (ischaemic) or bleeding in or around the brain (haemorrhagic). The sooner a person receives treatment for a stroke, the less damage is likely to happen.
In March 2021 the Government relaunched the ‘Act FAST’ campaign in response to new data suggesting people have been put off seeking help for stroke during the pandemic.
The FAST acronym is a simple test to help identify stroke symptoms:
- 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?
- Time – to call 999 if you see any one of these signs
A stroke affects someone every five minutes in the UK, with 100,000 people having one every year. Urgent and effective treatment can prevent long-term disability and save lives.
If you have been affected by delayed diagnosis or have concerns about treatment of a stroke and would like to speak with one of our medical negligence specialists, call us for a free consultation on 02920 391773 or contact Linda Williams by email.