May is Stroke Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Reduce Your Risk, Save Lives
Every day in May, around 240 people in the UK will suffer a stroke. That’s why Stroke Awareness Month is a crucial time to learn how to recognise the signs, reduce your risk, and protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, causing brain cells to die. This damage can affect how the body works, how a person thinks, and how they feel. The effects vary depending on where the stroke occurs in the brain and how much damage is done.
Strokes can be life-changing—and they can happen to anyone, at any age.
Strokes Don’t Just Affect Older People
Many people believe that strokes only happen to the elderly, but the reality is different. One in four strokes in the UK affects someone of working age. Children can even have strokes. That’s why it’s so important for everyone to be aware of the signs and risks.
Spotting the Signs: Use the FAST Test
When someone is having a stroke, every second counts. Acting quickly can save lives and improve recovery. Use the FAST test to remember the key symptoms:
- F – Face: Can the person smile? Has their face fallen on one side?
- A – Arms: Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
- S – Speech: Is their speech slurred or can they not speak at all?
- T – Time: Time to call 999 immediately.
Even if just one of these signs is present, don’t wait—call 999 right away.
Other signs to watch for include:
- Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side
- Trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden blurred or lost vision
- Confusion or memory loss
- Dizziness or a sudden fall
- A severe, unexpected headache
Reducing Your Risk
The good news is that many strokes are preventable. Making healthy lifestyle choices and having regular check-ups can significantly reduce your risk. Here’s how:
- Stop smoking
- Be more active
- Eat a healthy diet
- Limit alcohol to recommended levels
- Maintain a healthy weight
It’s also important to manage medical conditions that raise your stroke risk, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and atrial fibrillation.
If you're over 40, ask your GP about routine health checks. If you’re from a Black, South Asian, or Chinese background, you may be eligible for diabetes checks from age 25 due to a higher risk profile.
Remember Your Medication
If you’ve been prescribed medication for a condition that increases your stroke risk, it’s vital to take it exactly as directed. If you’re concerned about side effects, speak to your GP or pharmacist. Never stop taking medication without medical advice.
This May, Be Stroke Aware
Stroke Awareness Month is a reminder that knowledge saves lives. By learning the signs, getting regular check-ups, and living a healthy lifestyle, we can all help reduce the number of strokes and improve outcomes for those affected.
For more information or support, visit the Stroke Association.
Stroke care
Did you know that we can provide care at home if you have been impacted by a stroke. To find out more about our service click here.
To speak to the office about our care click here.
