Stroke is Ireland’s third biggest killer but hundreds of lives could be saved each year if more people knew that stroke is a medical emergency. What’s more worrying is that statistics prove only 50% of Irish people know how to recognise the symptoms of a stroke.
The Irish Heart Foundation are this week asking the public to get on board and learn the four signs that could help you identify if someone has suffered a stroke.
An average stroke kills two million brain cells for every minute it is active, so acting immediately is VITAL. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, call emergency services on 999 immediately.
Research has proven that the faster a person suffering a stroke is admitted to hospital, the more the brain can be saved.
To help identify the signs of stroke, the Irish Heart Foundation are advising the public to think FAST:
F – Face: Has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
A – Arms: Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
S – Speech: Is their speech slurred?
T –Time: Call 999 if you spot any single one of these signs
For more information on #ActFast campaign, or for advice or information on stroke contact the Irish Heart Foundation here.
