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WAIRARAPA HOSPITAL
0800 946 9800
(06) 946 9800

Published Tuesday 24 Jul 2018

Each year in New Zealand about 9,000 people have a stroke.
A stroke is a brain attack. The blood supply to part of the brain is cut off.

 

Delayed recognition of a stroke can have tragic consequences, including further damage to the brain or death.

Stroke is always a medical emergency. Call 111 immediately if you see any signs.

What do you need to know?

  • A stroke is a brain attack. The blood supply to part of the brain is cut off.
  • A stroke is always a medical emergency, call 111 immediately.
  • A stroke can happen to anyone at any time – it could be someone you know or the person next to you. They could be younger than you expect.
  • It is important to recognise when someone is having a stroke and to start medical treatment as soon as possible because fast treatment can reduce brain damage and mean better outcomes.
  • Even if you are not sure it is a stroke – it is important if you see any of the signs to call 111 immediately.
  • Acting FAST can save lives, give people the best chance of recovery, and reduce ongoing costs from stroke to families, caregivers and communities.

Remember FAST!

Know the signs of stroke, think FAST:

  • F Face – is their face drooping on one side?
  • A Arm – is one arm weak?
  • S Speech – is their speech mixed up, slurred or lost.
  • T Take Action - call 111.

Call 111 immediately if you see any signs of stroke.