Doctor Elinore Zaguirre, who is based at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, explained: “FAST is an acronym that people of all ages should be very aware of. Simply remembering it can help save lives.
“It’s something we are continually promoting but National Stroke Awareness Month gives us the perfect opportunity to reiterate a message that should be as familier to people as their telephone number and ATM pin.”
In particular, they are placing emphasis on making the public aware of FAST.
FAST is an acronym for things to check in a suspected stroke victim and doctors are urging islanders to make note of the following:
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F – Face. Does the face droop on one side when the person smiles?
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A – Arm. After raising both arms, does one of the arms drift downwards?
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S – Speech. After repeating a simple phrase, does the persons speech sound slurred or strange?
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T – Time. If any or all of the above are observed call for 911 or 999 and ask for medical assistance.
Are you at risk of having a stroke? Would you know if someone else was having one and what to do if they were?
If you’re unsure of the answers to these questions then a campaign launched by InterHealth Canada is for you.
May is US National Stroke Awareness Month and so hospital staff are reminding islanders about risk factors, symptoms and preventative measures.
Dr Zaguirre said that reasearch by the US National Stroke Association reveals that up to 80 per cent of strokes in our region are avoidable.
“Although strokes can happen to anyone, certain risk factors can increase chances of a stroke”, she explained. “However, studies show that up to 80 per cent of strokes can be prevented by working with a healthcare professional to reduce personal risk.
“It is important to manage personal risk and know how to recognise and respond to stroke signs and symptoms.”
InterHealth has issued stroke prevention guidelines, which will help people lower their risk of a first stroke.
These include; knowing your blood pressure (hypertension), identify atrial fibrillation, stop smoking, control alcohol use, know your cholesterol levels, control diabetes, manage your exercise and diet, treat circulation problems and be aware of a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA).
Dr Zaguirre added: “Knowing, controlling and managing the things detailed in the guidelines will certainly help reduce your risk of a stroke. It is also extremely important to take any medications as prescribed.
“If you are worried about your risk factors or require further information, make an appointment to see your doctor or seek advice from your pharmacist or any other medical professional.”
