Stroke

What is a stroke?

A stroke is an emergency condition in which there is a disruption of blood supply to part of the brain, leading to brain injury.

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What are the symptoms of a stroke?

The occurrence of stroke can usually be identified by the onset of the following symptoms: 

• F - face. Part of the person's face starts to droop, making it difficult for them to smile. 

• A - arms. The person is unable to fully lift their arms. 

• S - speech. The person has difficulties with speech, which becomes slurred. 

• T - time. It is time to call 999. A person displaying these symptoms must immediately be taken to an emergency department for treatment. 

A person experiencing a stroke might also have a sudden headache, confusion, dizziness, problems with communicating or problems with their vision. 

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How does a stroke lead to brain injury?

The brain relies on a rich supply of oxygen to keep brain cells working; this is supplied by an intricate network of blood vessels that pump oxygen-rich blood around the brain. When this blood flow is disrupted by either a blood clot or a burst blood vessel, the brain cells are starved of oxygen and they begin to die. This results in brain injury. 

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What is a transient ischaemic attach (TIA)?

These are mini strokes that can occur in the brain. A TIA occurs when there is a temporary disruption to the blood supply to the brain due to a blocked blood vessel. The symptoms of a TIA are the same as a stroke, but they only last for a few minutes or hours. However, medical attention should always be sought as soon as these symptoms are recognised, as they can be an indication of a stroke occurring. Even if the symptoms of a TIA improve or disappear by the time an ambulance arrives, it may still be necessary to carry out a medical assessment, as TIAs indicate a risk of experiencing a stroke in the future.