Siemens Stroke for Stroke

What is stroke ?

A stroke is caused by a bleed or a clot in the brain that causes brain cells to die. It can happen anywhere in the brain and so when a stroke strikes people are affected in different and devastating ways. People may lose their speech, their sight, their hearing, their memory or their mobility. Relationships can break down under the strain and friendships are tested to their limit. It is no surprise then that depression is common amongst stroke survivors who can often feel incredibly lonely and isolated. Stroke changes your life forever.
Stroke is the second most common cause of death and the leading cause of severe adult disability in the UK. It kills three times as many women as breast cancer each year and it doesn't discriminate
Stroke can affect anyone of any age. 25% of strokes happen to people under the age of 65, and every week 10 children and babies have a stroke. An astounding 40% of strokes could be prevented with some very simple but effective lifestyle changes such as a better diet, more exercise and monitoring blood pressure.
However, stroke is not a full stop - it is preventable, it is treatable and with long term care there is life after stroke. For more information visit the Make a Difference section.

A stroke is a medical emergency. If you see the signs of a stroke act FAST:

• Facial weakness,
• Arm weakness,
• Speech problems,
• Time to call 999

Early treatment saves lives and increases the chances of a better recovery.