A stroke is a medical emergency that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. In the UK, stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability, but many strokes are preventable, and fast action can dramatically improve outcomes. Knowing the signs and understanding what to do can quite literally save a life.
Let’s look at the different types, common symptoms, risk factors, treatment, recovery, and how to reduce your risk.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the brain’s blood supply is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes. The effects of a stroke depend on which part of the brain is affected and how quickly treatment begins.
Because brain damage happens so quickly, stroke is always a 999 emergency.
Types of Stroke
There are three main types of stroke:
1. Ischaemic Stroke
This is the most common type, accounting for around 85% of strokes. It happens when a blood clot blocks an artery supplying the brain.
2. Haemorrhagic Stroke
This occurs when blood leaks out of a blood vessel, causing bleeding into or around the brain. It is less common but often more severe.
3. Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
Often called a “mini-stroke”, a TIA causes stroke-like symptoms that resolve within 24 hours. While symptoms pass, a TIA is a serious warning sign that a full stroke may follow and must be treated urgently.
Recognising the Signs of Stroke – FAST
The NHS promotes the FAST test as the easiest way to recognise some of the common signs of a stroke:
F – Face
Has the person’s face dropped on one side? Can they smile?
A – Arms
Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
S – Speech
Is their speech slurred or difficult to understand?
T – Time
Time to call 999 immediately if you see any of these signs.
Even if symptoms seem mild or go away, do not wait. The faster treatment begins, the better the chance of recovery.
Other symptoms may include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding
- Sudden vision problems
- Severe headache with no known cause
- Dizziness or loss of balance
You may also see the term BEFAST, which add these additional symptoms to the beginning of the FAST test:
- B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
- E – Eyes: Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
FAST remains the key NHS message, but BEFAST can help identify strokes that present primarily with balance or vision problems. If any of these signs are present, call 999 immediately. It’s also important to remember that every medical event can look different, seek medical help for any worrying signs and symptoms.
What To Do If You Think Someone Is Having a Stroke
STROKE IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Act immediately — every minute matters
If you suspect a stroke:
- Call 999 straight away
- Clearly say “I think this person is having a stroke”
- Note the time symptoms started
- Keep the person comfortable and safe
- Do not give food, drink, or medication
- Stay with them until help arrives
⚠️ Do not wait to see if symptoms improve and do not drive them to hospital yourself – an ambulance ensures rapid assessment and treatment.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Stroke treatments are time-critical. Some treatments, such as clot-busting medication (thrombolysis), are most effective when given within a few hours of symptoms starting.
Every minute a stroke goes untreated, millions of brain cells can be lost. Quick action can:
- Reduce brain damage
- Improve survival
- Limit long-term disability
This is why the NHS emphasises: never drive yourself to hospital — always call 999.
Who Is at Risk of Stroke?
Anyone can have a stroke, but certain factors increase the risk.
Medical risk factors
- High blood pressure (the biggest risk factor)
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
- Previous stroke or TIA
Lifestyle risk factors
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Poor diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Being overweight
Other factors
- Age (risk increases with age)
- Family history of stroke
- Certain ethnic backgrounds have higher risk
The NHS stresses that many of these risks are manageable with the right support and lifestyle changes.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If a stroke is suspected, hospital staff will act quickly to confirm the diagnosis using brain scans such as CT or MRI.
Treatment may include:
- Clot-busting medication (for ischaemic strokes)
- Surgery or procedures to stop bleeding (for haemorrhagic strokes)
- Medication to reduce future risk, such as blood thinners
- Supportive care to stabilise breathing, blood pressure, and blood sugar
Recovery After a Stroke
Recovery varies widely. Some people recover fully, while others may have long-term effects such as:
- Weakness or paralysis
- Speech and language difficulties
- Memory or concentration problems
- Emotional changes, including anxiety or depression
Rehabilitation is a key part of recovery and may involve:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech and language therapy
- Psychological support
Early rehabilitation and ongoing support is advised to help people regain independence and quality of life.
Preventing Stroke
Many strokes are preventable. NHS advice for reducing stroke risk includes:
- Managing blood pressure through medication and lifestyle changes
- Stopping smoking
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Taking prescribed medication as directed
- Attending regular health checks
If you’ve had a TIA or stroke, following your treatment plan is essential to prevent another one.
Stroke Awareness Saves Lives
Stroke can happen suddenly and without warning, but recognising the signs and acting fast can make a life-changing difference. Remember FAST, trust your instincts, and call 999 immediately if you suspect a stroke.
Increasing awareness doesn’t just save lives, it reduces long-term disability and helps protect families, workplaces, and communities.
