A stroke can happen without warning, and every second can affect a person’s recovery. On World Stroke Day, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is urging people in Sligo and Leitrim to recognise the warning signs and call 999 or 112 immediately if a stroke is suspected.
HSE stroke warning: know the F.A.S.T. signs
The HSE says a stroke is a medical emergency caused when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted by a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel. Immediate treatment can reduce brain damage and improve the chances of survival and recovery.
The simplest way to remember the key symptoms is F.A.S.T.:
- Face: Has one side of the face drooped or become weak?
- Arm: Has one arm suddenly become weak, clumsy or difficult to lift?
- Speech: Is speech slurred, confused or difficult to understand?
- Time: Call 999 or 112 and request an ambulance immediately.
Only one of these symptoms may be enough to indicate a stroke. Do not wait to see whether symptoms improve, and do not drive the person to hospital yourself. Tell the emergency service that you suspect a stroke.
Why fast treatment matters
The HSE states that one in four people is at risk of having a stroke during their lifetime. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Ireland and the leading cause of acquired neurological disability among adults. More than 90,000 people in Ireland live with the effects of stroke.
Fewer than half of stroke patients currently reach hospital within three hours of symptoms beginning, despite this being an important treatment window. Specialist treatments can include thrombolysis, which dissolves a clot, and thrombectomy, which removes a clot. Thrombolysis may need to be administered within 4.5 hours, while eligibility depends on the individual patient and clinical assessment.
HSE West and North West is highlighting that stroke does not affect only older people. It can happen to anyone, at any age, and in everyday situations such as family gatherings, sporting activities or children’s parties.
What to do if stroke is suspected
- Look for sudden facial weakness, arm weakness or speech difficulty.
- Note the time symptoms began, or the last time the person was known to be well.
- Call 999 or 112 without delay and ask for an ambulance.
- Keep the person safe and follow the emergency operator’s instructions.
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The key message for Sligo and Leitrim
The HSE’s message is straightforward: if you see even one possible stroke symptom, act FAST. Calling 999 or 112 immediately gives emergency teams the best opportunity to begin time-sensitive treatment and limit long-term disability.
For further official information, visit the HSE stroke information service at hse.ie/stroke.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE