A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off. Blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to your brain. Without blood, your brain cells can be damaged or destroyed and they won’t be able to do their job. Signs of a stroke are very sudden. Symptoms include:

Numbness, weakness or paralysis on one side of your body (signs of this may be a drooping arm, leg or lower eyelid, or a dribbling mouth)
Slurred speech or difficulty finding words or understanding speech
Sudden blurred vision or loss of sight
Confusion or unsteadiness
Sudden, severe headache

If you suspect a stroke, thinking FAST (Face, Arm, Speech, Time) can help

Facial weakness –can the person smile? Has the 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

Making some simple changes to your lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of stroke in the future, like quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol, eating healthily, and staying active.

For more information:
Stroke Association Helpline: 03033033100 www.stroke.org.uk
NHS Direct Wales.

ID: 2102, revised 23/01/2018