Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What is the FAST test for stroke?

The FAST test is a simple set of early warning signs for stroke that anyone can use to recognise stroke in themselves or in others. FAST is an acronym for: Face (is it droopy, flaccid, especially just on one side? Can the person smile?); Arms (can the person lift both their arms above their head?); Speech (are there problems speaking and/or understanding speech? Is speech slurred?), and; Time (quick action will improve the chances of survival and recovery).

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is stroke?

A stroke is an interruption in blood flow to the brain that causes permanent brain injury.

What causes stroke?

Stroke happens when oxygen-rich blood cannot reach the brain cells.

Are there different types of stroke?

There are two main types of stroke: ischemic stroke, which happens when a blood vessel leading to the brain gets blocked, and haemorrhagic stroke, which happens when a blood vessel leading to the brain suddenly bleeds. A transient ischemic attack is a …

What are the symptoms of stroke?

Symptoms and effects of stroke can include: sudden weakness on one side of the body; inability to move or lift the arm; sudden paralysis of one side of the body; movement and coordination problems; cognitive problems; sudden, severe headache; dizziness …

Who gets stroke?

While anyone can have a stroke, it is more common in older adults. High blood pressure, smoking, a poor diet and obesity are also major contributors to the risk of stroke.

How is stroke diagnosed?

Stroke is diagnosed by its symptoms and a physical examination. Brain imaging scans are used to identify and locate the stroke.

How is stroke treated?

Immediate treatment for stroke is given at a hospital and concentrates on restoring normal blood flow to the brain. Once the situation has stabilised, rehabilitation can concentrate on regaining normal functions and adjusting to the post-stroke situation.

Can stroke be prevented?

The risk of stroke cannot be completely eliminated, but you can lessen the chance of it happening by stopping smoking, reducing high blood pressure, becoming more physically active and improving your diet.

What is the outlook for stroke?

Unfortunately, about a quarter of all people following a stroke, die within a month; about a half die within a year. Haemorrhagic stroke is particularly fatal, with nearly half of all victims dying within a month. For those who survive a stroke, …

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Ischaemic stroke

There are two main types of stroke: ischaemic stroke and haemorrhagic stroke. Ischaemic strokes account for about 80% of all stroke cases. An ischaemic stroke occurs when an artery supplying oxygen-rich blood into the brain is blocked and oxygen cannot reach the brain tissue. This page details the types of ischaemic stroke and the treatment given. For more information on stroke signs and symptoms,…
Diseases & conditions

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system that interferes with the transmission of nerve impulses in the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. This can lead to impaired sensation, movement and cognition.…
Diseases & conditions

Conversion disorder

Conversion disorder is a mental health condition in which a person experiences physical symptoms that have no physical cause. In the past, this condition has been known as hysteria.…
Diseases & conditions

Heart attack

A heart attack is a medical emergency caused by a sudden stoppage of blood flow to your heart muscle, usually due to coronary artery disease. Symptoms vary and may include mild to severe chest pain. If you think you are experiencing a heart attack, it is important to seek prompt medical treatment.…
Diseases & conditions

Bell's palsy

Bell's palsy is a sudden weakness, drooping or paralysis of muscles, usually only on one side of the face. The cause is usually not known. Although the symptoms can be distressing, most people recover fully from Bell's palsy within a couple of weeks to months.…
Diseases & conditions

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

A deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot within a deep vein, usually in the legs. Numerous factors can increase the risk of a clot forming. The clot may travel to a lung and block its function, which may be life-threatening. Following some advice can help prevent this condition.…

About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 16 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 18 Oct 2018
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Votes: 739 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Ischaemic stroke

×

Content goes in here.