Spot strokes fast

Rapidly treating a mini-stroke, or transient ischaemic attack (TIA), reduces the risk of a major stroke by 80% according to a study by Oxford’s Radcliffe Hospital, UK.

Someone who suffers a TIA has similar symptoms to
a stroke but the symptoms may only last a few minutes. Ignoring them, however, can result in a major stroke within the next three months.

The Stroke Association [UK] uses the FAST test to diagnose whether someone is having a stroke or TIA:

• Facial weakness—can the person smile, has the person’s mouth/eye drooped?

• Arm weakness—can they raise both arms?

• Speech problems—can they speak clearly and understand what you say?

Test all three symptoms. If he or she fails any of these tests, call an ambulance so they can receive treatment quickly at a hospital and damage to the brain can be reduced.