National Stroke Week 2021

More than 100,000 Tasmanians are living with high blood pressure, putting them at serious risk of a stroke and many don’t even know it.

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, there have been fewer people calling triple zero and going to hospital at the first signs of a stroke. Due to this, people are relying on our F.A.S.T. heroes to save lives by recognising the signs of stroke (Face, Arms, Speech and Time).

Anyone can keep an eye out for these symptoms and save the life of a loved one, a colleague, a stranger or even yourself by understanding the F.A.S.T message and calling an ambulance straight away if you suspect a stroke.

Signs of a stroke:

Face – check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
Arms – can they lift both arms?
Speech – is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
Time – time is critical.

According to the Stroke Foundation, a stroke attacks the brain when it doesn’t get the blood it needs. Up to 1.9 million cells may die every minute a brain is without sufficient blood.

There are two types of stroke:

Ischaemic stroke – a blood clot or plaque blocks artery
Haemorrhagic stroke – an artery breaks or bursts

Every stoke is different and how it affects the individual. It can affect a person’s body, their emotions, and the way they think. It can cause muscle weakness, and problems with speaking, memory, hearing or vision.

To help spread awareness of this condition, National Stroke Week is running from August 2-8, 2021, which shines a light on the life-changing condition. The Stroke Foundation is encouraging Australians to become familiar with the F.A.S.T message.

For more information, visit www.strokefoundation.or.au

Updates correct as at 2 August 2021.
Authorised by Emily Shepherd, ANMF Tasmanian Branch Secretary

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