Stroke is caused by an interruption of the blood supply to the brain. This can be caused by a blood clot or a breaking blood vessel. It can result in loss of movement to one side of the body. Strokes are more common in older people but can happen at any age. One way of recognising a stroke is to ask the person to smile- if their smile is lopsided, you will know they have been affected. The severity of a stroke varies widely and some people make a complete recovery. Use the FAST (Face, Arm, Speech, Time) guide is you suspect a casualty has had a stroke F Facial weakness – ask him to smile. If he had had a stroke he may be unable to smile evening and the mouth or eye may be droopy A Arm weakness – ask him to raise his arms. He may be unable to raise one arm. S Speech problems – ask him some questions. Can he understand what you are saying /can he speak? T Time to call 999 /112 for emergency help
This article was reviewed by the British Red Cross in December 2009.
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