Have you or someone you loved ever suffered a stroke? Did you react the right way or learn something from the experience? This week is National Stroke Week, and the message we want you all to take away from this week is just how fast you have to act in the case of a stroke. One in every six people in Australia will suffer a stroke yet most people don’t know the signs of stroke off by heart. But as one of Australia’s largest killers, it might be time to pay attention to them. If you suffer a stroke, please remember that every minute you delay seeking treatment for, is more minutes of braincell damage.
The Stroke Foundations teaches that the F.A.S.T. test offers an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke.
Using the F.A.S.T. test involves asking these simple questions:
Face | Check their face. Has their mouth drooped? In a stroke, sometimes, one side of the face goes slack. … |
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Arm | Can they lift both arms? A key symptom is that one arm is weak or when raising both arms, one arm drifts downward or is numb. |
Speech | Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you? Speech difficulties are a sign of stroke. |
Time | Sudden vision trouble, dizziness, loss of balance, or sudden and severe headache can also be warning signs.Time Is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away. |
Lower your risk of stroke nowStroke risk rises with age, and there is much you can do to lower your risk. A heart-healthy diet and lifestyle is essential. This includes:
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For more information about Stroke, visit http://strokefoundation.com.au/.