Did you know that a stroke is the most common cause of adult disability in the UK and the third most common cause of death?
Neither did we, pretty amazing statistics aren’t they, but you’re probably wondering why we’re mentioning it now.
Well, today sees the launch of a National Stroke Awareness campaign and naturally, it’s being supported by the NHS on the Isle of Wight.
The campaign is aiming to raise awareness of strokes and highlight that if the symptoms can be spotted early on, those suffering will have a better the chance of survival and recovery.
The campaign is promoting a simple test called FAST – Face Arm Speech Test – something that is already in use by by paramedics.
Robin Beal, Clinical Director for Access and Assessment at the Isle of Wight NHS Primary Care Trust said:
“Reducing the number of deaths from stroke is a key priority for the NHS. It is vital that everyone knows how to recognise the symptoms of a stroke by thinking FAST – Face Arm Speech Test and call 999 at the first signs of an attack so they get the right treatment quickly. That way we have a better chance of saving their life and preventing the disabilities that stroke can cause such as paralysis, severe memory loss and communication problems.”
The three specific symptoms which you need to look out for are …
- Facial weakness – can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
- Arm weakness – can the person raise both arms?
- Speech problems – can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
- Time to call 999
Jeannine Johnson, Lead Stroke Nurse Specialist and Stroke Improvement Programme Manager said:
“Last year around 400 people on the Island suffered a stroke with a further 200 experiencing a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA), frequently described as a mini stroke and often a sign that a “bigger” stroke is coming. It is therefore imperative that the public are aware of the symptoms of stroke in order to seek urgent medical help and try to minimise what has the potential to be a devastating impact.
“Both Nationally and here on the Island stroke is taken very seriously. NHS Isle of Wight now has a robust Stroke Improvement Programme and major investment and collaboration with the Local Authority, The National Stroke Association and proactive local Stroke Groups is happening at all stages of the Stroke Pathway in order to ensure that people who experience a stroke receive quality, evidence based treatment and support.”
