What are the symptoms of a stroke?

The common symptoms of a stroke are:

• Numbness or weakness in the arm, face and leg affecting one side of the body
• Speech disturbance causing difficulty in speaking, difficulty understanding others speaking or slurred speech

Remember the word FAST to recognise the main symptoms of a stroke 

• Face: Look at the person's face. Has it drooped on one side? Can they smile? Check if their mouth or eye looks droopy.
• Arms: Ask the person to lift both arms. Are they unable to keep one arm up due to weakness or numbness?
• Speech: Listen to their speech. Is it slurred or hard to understand? Can they speak at all? Do they seem confused by what you're saying?
• Time: call 999

Types of stroke

There are two main types of strokes. One type happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts and causes bleeding. The other type happens when something blocks the blood flow to the brain. In both cases, the brain doesn't get enough blood and oxygen, which can harm brain tissue.
 

There is also a mini-stroke, known as a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) - it is a condition similar to a stroke, but symptoms only last for a short period. The symptoms occur because a clot temporarily blocks the blood flow in your brain. Once the clot clears, the symptoms go away.
Even if you feel fine afterward, it's very important to seek medical attention immediately.

What Are the Main Risk Factors for Stroke?

Key risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation)
• Diabetes

How is a Stroke Treated?

A stroke is an emergency. The earlier treatment begins, the better the outcome. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, call 999 right away.

Patients are taken to the nearest hospital with a specialized Stroke unit. In East Sussex, stroke units are located at Eastbourne General Hospital and Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton.