Staff at St Mary’s Hospital are raising awareness off the signs and symptoms of mini-strokes (also known as transient ischaemic attack or TIA’s) as part of this year’s “Action on Stroke Month”.
A Stroke Nurse will be in the foyer of the Full Circle Restaurant at St Mary’s Hospital on the 19th May from 09:00 until 15:30 offering information about Stroke as well as professional advice and support.
A TIA or transient ischaemic attack (also known as a mini-stroke) is the same as a stroke, except that the symptoms last for a short amount of time and no longer than 24 hours. According to the Stroke Association someone has a stroke every three and a half minutes in the UK, but worryingly 31% of people don’t know what a stroke is.
Jeannine Johnson, Clinical Lead for Stroke on the Island, said:
“Too many TIA’s are dismissed as “funny turns” and an important opportunity to see the patient early on might be missed.
“It is vital that the public are aware of the FAST (Face, Arm, Speech, Time) test and seek emergency help immediately. We can then arrange an appointment for them to be seen in the TIA clinic. This will enable us to carry out a neurological assessment and any necessary investigations including a medication review to ensure any warning signs are picked up to help prevent a stroke.”
The FAST test identifies the most common symptoms of a stroke or TIA in three easy to recognise categories:
F Facial weakness – Can the person smile? Has their face fallen on one side?
A Arm weakness – Can the person raise both arms and keep them there?
S Speech problems – Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred?
T Time – to call 999 Stroke is always a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. If you see any one of these three signs, it’s time to call 999.
Recognising the signs of stroke and calling 999 for an ambulance is crucial. The quicker a patient arrives at a specialist stroke unit, the quicker they will receive appropriate treatment and the more likely they are to make a better recovery. If you suspect a stroke, always dial 999.
For further information about stroke including prevention, emergency care, rehabilitation and research visit the Stroke Association website at www.stroke.org.uk
