Stroke

A stroke happens when blood can’t get to part of your brain. This can hurt your brain and stop it from working properly.

There are two main types:

• Ischaemic stroke – a blood clot blocks a blood vessel.

• Haemorrhagic stroke – a blood vessel bursts and bleeds into the brain.

Both types are serious and need fast help.

Signs of a Stroke

Use the FAST test:

• F – Face: Is one side drooping?

• A – Arms: Can they lift both arms?

• S – Speech: Is their speech slurred or strange?

• T – Time: Call 999 right away.

Why Blood Is Important

Your brain needs blood to work. Blood carries oxygen and food. If blood stops flowing, brain cells can die. That’s why strokes are dangerous.

Can You Prevent a Stroke?

You can lower your risk by:

• Eating healthy food

• Moving more

• Not smoking

• Drinking less alcohol

• Checking your blood pressure

Support After a Stroke

Recovering from a stroke can be hard. You don’t have to do it alone.

Support groups can help you:

• Talk to others who’ve had a stroke

• Share feelings and tips

• Get help with daily life

• Learn more about stroke recovery

Ask your doctor or nurse about local stroke support groups. You can also look on Hartlepool Now for stroke support groups.

You can find out more about strokes, its causes and treatment on www.nhs.uk/stroke.​