A stroke is caused when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off - and can be a serious and life threatening condition which requires urgent medical treatment.
Many may be aware of the common stroke symptoms - such as the face dropping on one side, or slurred speech - but there are other less common warning signs that you may have to look out for as well.
It's important to act quickly if a stroke occurs, with the NHS stating: "The sooner a person receives treatment for a stroke, the less damage is likely to happen."
It's Action On Stroke Month, so we spoke to Dr Clare Jonas, research communications and engagement lead at the Stroke Association, about the signs and symptoms to look for.
According to the Stroke Association, uncommon symptoms are:
- a sudden, severe headache
- sudden numbness or weakness anywhere on one side of the body
- difficulty finding words
- sudden memory loss or confusion
- sudden blurred vision or loss of sight in one eye.
Dr Jonas said: "Less common signs to look out for are: a sudden, severe headache, sudden numbness or weakness anywhere on one side of the body (not just the face or arms), difficulty finding words, sudden memory loss or confusion, and sudden blurred vision or loss of sight in one eye."
The researcher added that it is important to keep the FAST test in mind and said: “The FAST test (Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Time to call 999) is a means for members of the public to recognise whether someone is having a stroke.
"It’s simple, easy to remember, and reflects the most three common symptoms of stroke. However, every stroke is different, and can affect different parts of the brain, leading to different symptoms."
The expert added that if you spot any possible stroke symptoms, you should not hold off from seeking immediate medical attention.
“Don’t wait to see if your symptoms pass: call 999 straight away. It’s important to get checked out so that you can get the right treatment as fast as possible.” Dr Jonas added.
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