Think FAST if stroke strikes this Christmas

In the lead up to the Christmas season the Stroke Foundation is urging Australians to put their health first by being aware of the signs of stroke and taking FAST action when stroke strikes.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said it was tragically common for stroke patients to delay calling an ambulance during the festive season for fear of disrupting their family’s holiday plans.

“Stroke is a serious medical emergency which requires urgent medical attention. However too many Australians, particularly older people, ignore the signs or symptoms for fear of being a nuisance to their family and friends,” Ms McGowan said. 

“Health professionals tell us there is a marked increase in the number of patients taking too long to get to hospital after suffering a stroke during the festive season and sadly, many fall outside the vital treatment window as a result of this delay. 

“There are life-saving and disability reducing treatments available for stroke, however they are only effective if you get to hospital quickly. Hospitals stay open right throughout the holiday season. Delaying seeking emergency medical attention can cost you or your loved one your life.”

Stroke Foundation has a simple acronym to help people remember the signs of stroke:
Face – has their mouth drooped?
Arms – can they raise both of their arms above their head?
Speech – is their speech slurred? Can they understand what you’re saying?
Time – Call triple zero (000) immediately. Do not delay.

Ms McGowan said a person is likely to show at least one of these signs when they were having a stroke. Symptoms may only appear for a short period of time.

“A stroke happens every ten minutes in Australia. Anyone, of any age can suffer a stroke, it happens in an instant and its effects can be devastating,” Ms McGowan said.

“Stroke is a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain. Brain cells can quickly die without the oxygen that the blood supplies.

“This is why it is so important to get to hospital immediately if you think you are having a stroke because it is possible there may be some cells that can survive if you are treated quickly.

“Too many people make the mistake of lying down, calling a family member or waiting to see their GP, when they should be calling an ambulance. We want everyone to understand stroke is a medical emergency, don’t just ‘wait and see’.

“Learning the FAST message could be the best gift you can give your loved ones this Christmas. By thinking FAST and acting fast you might save a life over the holidays.”

Download the media release here