Important Information On Using This Service
- Ergsy carefully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by YouTube after a video has completed have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in the center of the video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on captions, click settings.
- To turn off captions, click settings again.
Find A Professional
NHS Here for You – Stroke
Understanding Stroke
A stroke is a serious, life-threatening medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. The two main types of stroke are ischemic strokes, caused by blockages or blood clots, and hemorrhagic strokes, caused by bleeding in or around the brain. It's crucial to act fast and recognise the signs of stroke, as swift treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery.
Recognising the Symptoms
The NHS promotes the FAST test to identify strokes quickly. The FAST acronym stands for:
- Face: Look at the person's face and ask them to smile. Is one side drooping?
- Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Is one arm drifting downwards?
- Speech: Listen to the person speak. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- Time: If you observe any of these signs, it's time to call 999 immediately.
Emergency Response
If you suspect someone is having a stroke, calling 999 is imperative. Paramedics are trained to provide immediate care and can transport the patient swiftly to a stroke unit. In the UK, the NHS provides high-quality stroke care and has designated specialist stroke centres that offer advanced treatment and rehabilitation services.
Aftercare and Rehabilitation
After the immediate emergency treatment, the NHS provides comprehensive aftercare to aid stroke recovery. Rehabilitation can include physical therapy to help regain mobility, speech therapy to overcome communication difficulties, and occupational therapy to assist with daily activities. The goal is to support individuals in regaining as much independence as possible and improving their quality of life.
Support for Families
Families and carers of stroke survivors also receive support from the NHS. Educational resources, counselling, and support groups are available to help cope with the emotional and practical challenges. Recognising the impact on families, the NHS aims to provide holistic care that addresses both medical and personal needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. It requires immediate medical attention.
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
Symptoms include sudden weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, loss of vision, dizziness, and severe headache.
What should I do if someone is having a stroke?
Call 999 immediately. The faster the person receives treatment, the less damage the stroke will do to their brain.
What causes a stroke?
Strokes are caused by an interruption to the blood supply to the brain, either by a blockage (ischaemic stroke) or a bleed (haemorrhagic stroke).
How is a stroke diagnosed?
A stroke is typically diagnosed through physical examination, brain scans such as a CT or MRI, and other tests to determine the cause.
What treatments are available for stroke?
Treatment depends on the type and cause of the stroke but can include medication, surgery, and rehabilitation therapy.
Can a stroke be prevented?
While not all strokes can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by managing blood pressure, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
What are the risk factors for stroke?
Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and a family history of stroke.
What is a TIA (transient ischaemic attack)?
A TIA or mini-stroke has similar symptoms to a stroke but lasts only a few minutes to a few hours and doesn’t cause permanent damage. It is a sign of a risk of a full stroke.
How does rehabilitation help after a stroke?
Rehabilitation helps stroke survivors regain as much independence as possible and may include physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy.
How long does it take to recover from a stroke?
Recovery time varies greatly depending on the severity of the stroke and the individual’s overall health. It can take weeks, months, or even years.
Can someone have more than one stroke?
Yes, it's possible to have more than one stroke, especially if underlying risk factors are not managed.
What support is available for stroke survivors?
Support includes medical care, rehabilitation services, counselling, support groups, and resources from organisations like the Stroke Association.
What lifestyle changes should be made after a stroke?
It is important to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption.
What is the FAST test?
The FAST test helps identify stroke symptoms: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call 999.
Useful Links
Useful links from: When Stroke Strikes Act F.A.S.T. | NHS
- NHS - Stroke Comprehensive NHS resource on strokes, including causes, symptoms, treatments, and recovery advice.
- Stroke Association - What is FAST? Stroke Association's guidance on recognizing stroke symptoms quickly using the F.A.S.T. method and what to do if you suspect a stroke.
- NHS - Act F.A.S.T. NHS Act F.A.S.T. campaign page, providing critical information on identifying stroke symptoms and the importance of rapid response.
- Stroke Association - Recovering from a Stroke Information and resources from the Stroke Association to help with stroke recovery, including support services available in the UK.
Useful links from: NHS Forth Valley’s Stroke Team
- NHS - Stroke The main NHS page providing comprehensive information about strokes, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
- Stroke Association A UK-based charity that offers support, information, and advice to stroke survivors, their families, and carers.
- NHS Forth Valley - Stroke Services Information about the stroke services available in the NHS Forth Valley area, including treatment and support for stroke patients.
- Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland A Scottish health charity providing care, support, and advice for individuals living with stroke, and promoting research and awareness.
Useful links from: Assessing the stroke patient
- NHS - Stroke Provides comprehensive information on stroke, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
- NHS - Stroke Diagnosis Details the procedures used to diagnose strokes, such as physical examinations, brain scans, and additional tests.
- Stroke Association A UK charity offering support, information, and advice to stroke survivors, their families, and carers. It also provides resources for healthcare professionals.
- Different Strokes A charity run by younger stroke survivors for younger stroke survivors, providing support, information, and events.
Useful links from: Vale Stroke Unit
- Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust - Vale Stroke Unit Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust page for the Vale Stroke Unit, providing detailed information about the services and care available for stroke patients.
- Stroke Association - Resources and Support Stroke Association's resources and support tailored for patients and families associated with the Vale Stroke Unit.
- NHS - Stroke Overview NHS overview page providing comprehensive information on stroke, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery tips.
- Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland - Post Stroke Support Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland charity offering extensive support resources, advice, and community connections for stroke survivors and their families.
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.