Introduction
A stroke is caused by a portion of the brain being starved of
oxygen. This can be due to a burst blood vessel or a clot blocking
a blood vessel. The lack of oxygen causes damage to the brain. The
long-term effects of a stroke depend on what part of the brain and
how much tissue is affected.
Recognition and treatment
Look for
- To recognise if someone has suffered a stroke, use the
FAST (Face, Arms,
Speech, Time) test.
Look at their face
- Ask them to smile
- If they have had a stroke, they may only be able to smile on
one side; the other side of the mouth may droop.
Ask them to raise both arms
- Ask them to raise both arms
- If they have had a stroke, they may only be able to lift one
arm.
Find out whether they can speak
- Ask them to speak
- If they have had a stroke, they may struggle to respond
appropriately.
Time to call 999/112
- Call 999/112 for emergency help
- Tell operator you have used the FAST test and suspect a
stroke.
- Keep them comfortable and supported.
Related topics
Internet links
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content of external internet sites
Next steps
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