Stroke Awareness

Stroke Awareness

Stroke symptoms can be subtle and may not be immediately recognised, difficulty smiling, raising arms or slurring speech can occur, even if they seem insignificant. Any stroke sign is an emergency, so prompt medical attention is crucial.

Act quickly and call 999.

Initial stroke signs include:

• Facial weakness
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulties
• Difficulty smiling
• Drooping of one side of the face
• Inability to raise both arms
• Numbness and weakness in one arm
• Slurred speech
• Confusion

Other symptoms to watch for include:

• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, including the leg
• Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes
• Sudden difficulty speaking or forming words
• Sudden memory loss or confusion
• Sudden severe headache
• Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall.

These symptoms should be taken seriously and prompt medical attention sought.