When a stroke happens
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Most strokes happen when a clot blocks an artery that carries blood to the brain. Some strokes are caused when a blood vessel bursts, causing bleeding into the brain.
What are the symptoms of stroke?
Three simple checks can help you recognise whether someone has had a stroke or mini-stroke (transient ischaemic attack - TIA).
The Stroke Association funded the research that developed the Face-Arm-Speech-Test (FAST).
F: Facial weakness: can the person smile? Has their mouth or an eye drooped?
A: Arm weakness: can the person raise both arms?
S: Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
T: Test these signs.
If you see any of these signs, call 999 immediately.
How to Act FAST
For contact details, maps and directions to hospitals in the West Midlands visit the NHS website
Back to West Midlands Stroke Information and Support
For information about stroke and details of The Stroke Association's local services and support, please call our helpline on 0845 30 33 100 or email info@stroke.org.uk
