The HSE urges Mayo people to think F.A.S.T this World Stroke Day

To mark World Stroke Day today (Thursday, 29 October) HSE West and North West is urging Mayo people to know the signs of stroke and the importance of seeking treatment as soon as symptoms appear. Strokes are a medical emergency, and urgent treatment is essential. Do not wait for the symptoms to resolve, call 999 or 112 for an ambulance immediately.

1 in 4 of us is at risk of stroke in our lifetimes. A stroke is a life-threatening medical condition, where blood supply to part of the brain is cut off by a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel.

A stroke can happen at any time to any person. It is the third leading cause of death in Ireland and the leading cause of acquired adult neurological disability. Over 90,000 people live with the effects of stroke in Ireland, and it is estimated that there will be a 58% increase in incidents of stroke over the next 10 years.

Recognising the signs of stroke and acting quickly makes a significant difference to survival and recovery. The message is simple: the second you suspect a stroke, is the second you call 999 or 112.

An easy way to be aware of the signs of stroke is to remember the established acronym, F.A.S.T:
• Face – Has the face drooped or become weak on one side?
• Arm – Has an arm become suddenly weak or clumsy on one side?
• Speech – Has speech suddenly become slurred or confused in nature?
• Time – Time to act FAST: phone 999 or 112 for an ambulance immediately.

F.A.S.T. is a well-known worldwide acronym, and yet, there is still some hesitancy when calling an ambulance for stroke symptoms. You only need one of these symptoms for it to be a stroke. Currently, fewer than 50% of stroke patients arrive at the hospital within three hours of symptoms starting a critical window for lifesaving and disability-reducing treatments.

Acting quickly is vital in improving the outcomes of stroke. The sooner a person gets treatment, the less damage is likely to happen.

A stroke can happen at any time to anyone, regardless of age. This is why the newly launched HSE Stroke advertisements focus on everyday family moments, such as playing a game of tennis or hosting a children’s birthday party. The steps stay the same; call 999 or 112 and ask for an ambulance as soon as a stroke is suspected.

Dr Tom Lee, Consultant Physician in Geriatrics/Stroke at Mayo University Hospital said, “Recognising a stroke and getting medical help quickly can make a huge difference to a person’s recovery. Stroke requires urgent hospital assessment and we have treatments available that can restore blood flow to the brain and improve outcomes for patients. These include Thrombolysis (clot dissolving) and thrombectomy (clot retrieval by transfer to Beaumont hospital).

“Not every patient will be suitable for these treatments and there is a limited window in which they can be given. For example, Thrombolysis must be given within 4.5 hours of symptoms beginning. The sooner treatment begins, the greater the chance of saving brain tissue and reducing the risk of serious disability or death.”

“Stroke continues to have a significant impact on people and families across Ireland. It is a leading cause of death and accredited disability. The number of lives it claims is more than breast, prostate and bowel cancer combined. Knowing the signs of a stroke and acting without delay is crucial.”

Áine O’Reilly, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Stroke at Mayo University Hospital said, “When it comes to stroke, time really does matter. Around 2 million brain cells can be lost every minute, which is why it is so important to get help straight away. If you notice signs of a stroke in yourself or someone else, do not wait and assume the symptoms will pass. Call 999 or 112 immediately, request an ambulance and explain that you suspect a stroke.”

For more information, visit www.hse.ie/stroke.