HSE urges Galway people to think F.A.S.T this World Stroke Day
THE HSE is urging people in Galway to think F.A.S.T this World Stroke Day and learn the signs and symptoms associated with the life-threatening medical condition.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off by a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel. One in four people across the country will be at risk of stroke at some time during their lives.
To mark World Stroke Day (Thursday, October 29) the HSE is urging Galway people to make themselves aware of the signs of stroke though the easy to remember and established acronym: F.A.S.T:
Face – Has the face drooped or become weak on one side?
Arm – Has an arm become suddenly weak or clumsy on one side?
Speech – Has speech suddenly become slurred or confused in nature?
Time – Time to act FAST: phone 999 or 112 for an ambulance immediately.
Dr Tom Walsh
“Stroke is a medical emergency and getting to hospital as quickly as possible is vital,” stated Dr Tom Walsh, Consultant Physician in Geriatrics/Stroke at Galway University Hospital (GUH).
“There are two main treatments that have radically improved survival and recovery from stroke by getting the blood flowing back to the brain: Thrombolysis (clot dissolving) and thrombectomy (clot retrieval by transfer to Beaumont hospital).
“However, not everyone will be suitable for these treatments, and timing is critical. Thrombolysis for example must be given within 4.5 hours of symptoms starting. The earlier that treatment begins, the greater the chance of saving brain tissue and reducing the risk of long-term disability or death.”
A stroke can happen at any time to any person. It is the third leading cause of death in Ireland and the leading cause of acquired adult neurological disability.
Over 90,000 people live with the effects of stroke in Ireland, and it is estimated that there will be a 58 per cent increase in incidents of stroke over the next 10 years.
Acting Quickly
Currently, fewer than 50 per cent of stroke patients arrive at the hospital within three hours of symptoms starting, a critical window for lifesaving and disability-reducing treatments.
Acting quickly is vital in improving the outcomes of stroke. The sooner a person gets treatment, the less damage is likely to happen.
“Every minute matters when someone is having a stroke,” noted Mary Gilbert, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Stroke at GUH.
“Around 2 million brain cells every minute, so delaying treatment can have a lasting impact on a person’s recovery.
“If you suspect that you or someone else is having a stroke, don’t wait to see if symptoms improve. Call 999 or 112 immediately ask for an ambulance and say that you suspect it could be a stroke.”
For more information about stroke symptoms, causes and treatments visit www.hse.ie/stroke.