The acronym FAST is helpful to remember. Face: facial weakness, dropping mouth dribbling. Arms: weakness, numbness, inability to lift arm. Speech: problems speaking or understanding. Time: ring 000 if there are any of these signs.
The Stroke Foundation’s Teresa Howarth has written about the welcome news that the NSW government has set aside more money for cardiovascular research, including stroke.
It is vitally important that country and city folk have 24-hour access to medical imaging and specialist care to give them the best outcomes. Treatments are now available to limit the damage to the brain by a stroke, such as early clot-dissolving medication.
Of course, preventing the first stroke is the ideal goal – avoiding smoking and unhealthy weight gain, staying active and following a healthy diet. GPs can help by using medication, where appropriate, to control blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. Some women should avoid the pill due to stroke risk, and some people require blood thinners for specific heart irregularities.
The other thing to consider is advance care planning. It’s never too early to discuss your wishes and desires with your family, should you lose the ability to direct health professionals about your healthcare.
The Stroke Foundation has an excellent website for consumer information.
