A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs. This can cause brain cells to die within minutes, making a stroke a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

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Common Symptoms of Stroke

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• Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.

• Confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech.

• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

• Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.

• Severe headache with no known cause.
   

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, remember to act FAST:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

• Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?

• Time: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.
   

Recognising these symptoms quickly can make a significant difference in treatment and recovery.

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Types of Stroke

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1. Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of all strokes.
    

2. Haemorrhagic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.
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3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a mini-stroke, it is a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke. TIAs don’t cause permanent damage but are warning signs of a future stroke. 

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Impact on an Individual

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The effects of a stroke vary depending on the type, severity, and location of the stroke. Common impacts include:
 

• Physical Effects: Weakness or paralysis, often on one side of the body; difficulty walking; loss of coordination; and muscle stiffness.

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• Sensory Effects: Numbness, pain, or altered sensations; vision problems; and difficulty swallowing.

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• Cognitive Effects: Memory loss, difficulty thinking, reasoning, and understanding; problems with speech and language.

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• Emotional Effects: Depression, anxiety, and changes in behaviour or personality.

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Recovery from a stroke can be a long process and often involves rehabilitation to regain lost skills and adapt to any lasting disabilities. Early treatment and rehabilitation can significantly improve outcomes.