Strokes can be debilitating - and are a leading cause of disability and even death both across the UK and in the North East.
Though we often think of strokes as happening to older people, one in four happen to people of working age - and Samantha Jones, associate director of the Stroke Association in the North East and Yorkshire, warned we should all be watchful for the signs and symptoms.
Samantha added that people in the North East should put aside any notion of being able to "lie down" and wait out the symptoms of a stroke. It's vital to ask for help as soon as possible if you or a loved one experiences signs of stroke.
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What is a stroke?
A stroke usually occurs in one of two ways, Samantha said. The types of stroke are "ischaemic strokes" and "haemorrhagic strokes" - and both can have heartbreaking implications.
She said: "My dad had a stroke when I was 23. At that time, I didn't know what a stroke was, I think I thought it was something to do with the heart. Of course, it's something that happens to the brain. There are two main types of stroke. One is called a ischaemic stroke which is when a blood clot causes a blockage in the brain which stops the bloodflow and can cause damage.
"The other type is a haemorrhagic stroke, which is when a blood vessel bursts in the brain. Stroke is a leading cause of disability."
What are the consequences of stroke?
"You can get 50 different people affected by stroke in a room at one time and it will have been different for everybody," Samantha added. "It depends on which area of the brain is affected and it can also depend on how quickly someone acts. "
She also explained how strokes can affect everything from our language skills to our mobility. Samantha added: "The main issue we have been focussing on over the past month is aphasia. It's all related to speech processing and it can impact someone's life profoundly.
"Stroke can impact on your speech, it can lead to physical disabilities, and it can have a huge impact on people's emotions and personalities. Stroke survivors can often say - 'I've just had a personality transplant'."
Act quickly
The leading charity boss added: "There are treatments people can have, but they are time limited. So it's very important to act quickly and get treatment that can limit the implications of a stroke. It increases the opportunity for recovery.
"It's important the people do seek medical help. I know Northerners like us can easily go 'oh it's a funny turn, I'll have a lie down'. But strokes can impact in so many ways, and it's so important that if you're even unsure that you do seek some help and support and access to treatment."
What to look out for
"Stroke is our leading cause of disability and it has a huge impact on lives," Samantha added. "People should go through the FAST. The 'f' is face, someone's face might droop, they might struggle lifting their arms - 'a' - or have speech difficulties - 's'. The 't' is time. But people do report so many other symptoms - things like a blinding headache or difficulties with vision. If anyone is not sure, make sure to reach out and dial 999."
Prevention
The other way to limit the impact of strokes on our family is to prevent them happening in the first place. Samantha added: "Preventing a stroke is also something people should be thinking about. 89% of strokes could have been preventable, so it's key to make sure that you are thinking about prevention and that means watching for things like high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation and an irregular heartbeat - all of which can contribute.
"But you can get treatment for those things that reduces the risk. And then there are all of the broader things to improve your health more generally - like looking after you diet and cutting down on alcohol and smoking."
The FAST test
Stroke is a medical emergency. The FAST test can help you recognise the most common signs.
- Facial weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
- Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms?
- Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
- Time to call 999: if you see any of these signs.
Make sure you and your loved ones all know the FAST test.
Visit the Stroke Association website to find out more about stroke, stroke safety and how to look after yourself and your loved ones.
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