A stroke can happen to anyone, anytime – it could be someone you know or the person next to you.
Each year 9,000 people have a stroke – that’s around one Kiwi each hour! It is important to recognise when someone is having a stroke and to start medical treatment as soon as possible because treatment can reduce brain damage and mean better outcomes.
Know the signs of stroke. Acting FAST can save lives, improve recovery and reduce ongoing costs from stroke to families, caregivers and communities. Stroke is always a medical emergency, call 111 immediately.
Know the signs of stroke, think FAST:
- Face – Is their face drooping on one side?
- Arm – Is one arm weak?
- Speech – Is their speech jumbled, slurred or lost?
- Time – Time to call 111.
Call 111 immediately if you see any of the FAST signs.
Learn the FAST check and tell others about it. If we all learn to recognise the signs of stroke, we could save a life!
For more information visit http://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/conditions-and-treatments/diseases-and-illnesses/stroke.
