May marks Stroke Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness of one of the leading causes of death and disability in the UK. A stroke can happen to anyone, at any age, and often occurs without warning. Understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking steps to reduce your risk can make a life-saving difference.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, depriving brain cells of oxygen. This can happen because of a blockage (ischaemic stroke) or a bleed in the brain (haemorrhagic stroke). Without urgent treatment, brain cells can be damaged within minutes.
Know the signs: Act FAST
Recognising the symptoms of a stroke quickly is critical. The faster someone receives medical attention, the better their chances of survival and recovery.
Remember FAST:
- Face – Has one side of the face dropped? Can the person smile?
- Arms – Can the person raise both arms and keep them there?
- Speech – Is their speech slurred or difficult to understand?
- Time – If you notice any of these signs, call 999 immediately
Even if the symptoms pass quickly, it could be a warning sign of a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” and urgent medical advice is still essential.
Why acting quickly matters
A stroke is a medical emergency. Every minute counts—early treatment can reduce the risk of long-term disability and improve outcomes. Delaying action, even by a short time, can have serious consequences.
Reducing your risk of stroke
While not all strokes can be prevented, many are linked to lifestyle factors and underlying health conditions. There are simple steps you can take to look after your health and lower your risk:
- Manage blood pressure – High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor for stroke
- Stay active – Regular physical activity supports heart and brain health
- Eat a balanced diet – Aim for plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and reduced salt and saturated fat
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stop smoking – Smoking significantly increases stroke risk
- Limit alcohol intake
- Attend regular health checks – Monitoring conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol can help reduce risk
Making small, sustainable changes can have a significant impact over time.
Life after stroke
A stroke can have a lasting impact on a person’s physical and emotional wellbeing, as well as on their family and carers. Recovery is often a gradual process that may involve rehabilitation, ongoing support, and adjustments to daily life. Raising awareness helps build understanding and encourages a more supportive environment for those affected.
Get involved this Stroke Awareness Month
Stroke Awareness Month is a chance for everyone to learn more and share important information with friends, family, and colleagues. By spreading awareness of the signs and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, we can all play a part in reducing the impact of stroke.
Knowing what to look for—and acting quickly—could save a life.