Stroke
Overview
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced. If this happens, brain cells begin to lose oxygen and can become damaged within a short time.
If you or someone around you has a stroke, it is a medical emergency. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in recovery and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Strokes can occur suddenly, often without warning. While this can sound alarming, recognising the signs early and getting immediate care can greatly improve outcomes and support recovery.
Symptoms
Stroke symptoms usually come on suddenly. You may notice:
- Weakness or numbness in your face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Sudden confusion
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Loss of balance, dizziness, or difficulty walking
- Severe headache with no clear cause
A simple way to recognise a stroke is to check for changes in face movement, arm strength, and speech.
Causes & Risk Factors
A stroke can happen when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have high blood pressure
- Have coronary artery disease or heart rhythm problems
- Have diabetes
- Have high cholesterol
- Smoke
- Are physically inactive or overweight
- Have a family history of stroke
These factors can increase the likelihood of reduced or disrupted blood flow to the brain.
Emergency Symptoms
Seek immediate medical care if you notice any of the following, even if they appear suddenly or briefly:
- One side of your face drooping or feeling weak
- Difficulty raising one arm or weakness on one side of your body
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking clearly
- Sudden confusion or trouble understanding others
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden severe headache
Prevention
While not all strokes can be prevented, managing your overall health can significantly reduce your risk:
- Keep your blood pressure under control
- Manage cholesterol and blood sugar levels
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking
- Attend regular health check-ups
Diagnostics Used
If a stroke is suspected, rapid assessment is essential. You may have:
Support Services
Recovery after a stroke often involves ongoing care and rehabilitation. You can benefit from:
- Rehabilitation and recovery support
- Lifestyle and stroke prevention guidance
- Monitoring and follow-up care
- Referral coordination where needed
By working together, we support recovery and help you regain independence over time.