Settlement Guide: 10 facts about stroke

A stroke is not a heart attack. A stroke occurs when the supply of blood to the brain is suddenly disrupted. Getting urgent medical help is critical to survival and recovery.

Stroke Letters

Source: Getty Images

1. One in six Australians will suffer from stroke at some point in their lifetime

Stroke survivor

2. One in three people die within a year of having a stroke

Stroke victim
Source: EPA

3. Stroke kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer

Men and women
Source: Getty Images

4. 20 per cent of people who experience a stroke are under the age of 55

Doctors
Source: Getty Images

5. Men are more likely to suffer a stroke at a younger age

Young stroke victim
Source: AAP

6. Blood pressure is one of the most important known risk factors for stroke

High blood pressure is when your blood pressure is over 140/90. This is known as hypertension. Normal blood pressure is around 120/80.

Blood pressure
Source: Press Association

7. The FAST test is an easy way to recognise and remember the signs of stroke

Using the FAST test involves asking these simple questions: Face - Check their face. Has their mouth drooped? Arm - Can they lift both arms? Speech - Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you? Time - Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call 000 straight away.

FAST
Source: Courtesy of Stroke Foundation

8. The signs of stroke may occur alone or in combination

Stroke brain scans
Source: Monty Rakusen/Getty Images

9. Some treatments for stroke must be given within 4.5 hours of the stroke starting or presentation of stroke symptoms

Ambulance emergency
Source: AAP

10. Emergency medical treatment is crucial

If you are having a stroke, emergency medical treatment could save your life and can reduce the likelihood of permanent brain damage. Only a doctor can decide whether you are having or have had a stroke.

Emergency
Source: AAP

If you need an interpreter call the Telephone Interpreting Service on 13 14 50, say the language you need and wait on the line for an interpreter.

 


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Published 8 September 2016 10:39pm
Updated 9 September 2016 9:11am
By Ildiko Dauda
Presented by Sima Tsyskin
Source: Stroke Foundation


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