Stroke: Prevent and Think F.A.S.T

A stroke happens when blood supply in the brain is interrupted or blocked. It can be caused by a blockage/clot (ischaemic) or a bleed (haemorrhagic) to the blood vessels in the brain.

When blood can’t get to parts of the brain, the brain can become injured if blood flow is stopped for too long.

This is what can cause the changes that can be seen when someone is having or has had a stroke, such as slurred speech, drooping of the face, arm and leg weakness and sometimes confusion and loss of balance.

If you think someone is having a stroke, ring ‘000’ straight away.

There are things we can and can’t change when it comes to our risk of stroke. Looking after your heart, blood vessels and brain is important to prevent a stroke.