WARRINGTON North MP Helen Jones showed her support for the Stroke Association when she dropped in at their office at Warrington Hospital.
She was assisting the association in promoting its recent national FAST campaign to promote stroke awareness.
The MP met association members and staff who work in the stroke unit, as well as senior members of the Trust.
Stroke is a medical emergency and needs to be tackled quickly. By dialling 999 people can be taken to hospital quickly and receive the treatment they need. Prompt action can prevent further damage to the brain and help some people make a full recovery. Delay can result in death or major long-term disabilities, such as paralysis, severe memory loss and communication problems.
People are encouraged to use FAST to help recognise the symptoms of stroke. FAST – which stands for Face, Arm, Speech Test – is used by ambulance crews to diagnose stroke.
F is for Facial weakness. Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped? A is for Arm weakness. Can the person raise both arms? S is for Speech problems. Can the person speak clearly and understand what is said?
T is for Time. Time to call 999.
The best way to reduce the risk of a stroke is to eat a healthy diet,
exercise regularly and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
