Media Release
Date: 2 February 2017
The RUH helps to raise awareness of 'Act FAST' stroke campaign
In support of Public Health England’s relaunch of the Act FAST stroke campaign which starts today, The Royal United Hospitals, Bath NHS Foundation Trust is reminding people of the key symptoms of stroke and the importance of calling 999 immediately if they notice any single one of the symptoms themselves or in others.
The ‘Act F.A.S.T.’ (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) acronym is easy to remember and helps people recognise if someone else is having a stroke:
- Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
- Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there?
- Speech – is their speech slurred?
- Time to call 999
Backing the campaign, Dr Louise Shaw, Consultant Stroke Physician at the RUH said:
“The signs of a stroke are not always immediately recognised by people, which is why knowing the Act F.A.S.T signs could make a tremendous difference to someone who unfortunately suffers one.
“The sooner specialist emergency intervention can be provided the better, because the road to recovery after a stroke can be a long and difficult one, but emergency treatment can significantly change the long term outcome.”
Phil Walker, 40, from Winsley was treated at the RUH after suffering from a stroke in 2010, he said:
“I began to lose use of my arms, legs, speech, and without the speed of care I’m sure I would not be here. It’s important that everyone recognises and react at the signs of stroke. Every second really does count.”
For information about what a stroke is and how to recognise the signs visit: www.nhs.uk/actfast or to find out what support is available in your local area visit: www.stroke.org.uk/finding-support.