Relaunch of Act F.A.S.T. Stroke Campaign

[TracyAdmin]

We are supporting the relaunch of Public Health England’s Act F.A.S.T stroke campaign.

For some people, living with an arrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation, means they are at a higher risk of having a stroke. This is why it is so important for people to know their pulse. Visit knowyourpulse.org for more information.

It is important for everyone to know the signs of a stroke and act F.A.S.T.

[john-boy-92]

Hi Tracy;

I would like to comment on two points:

When I had a stroke, the ambulance crew (999 response) didn't realise that I had a stroke as I didn't have FAST indicators. Consequently, they talked to me for an hour before my slowing verbal responses made them realise that I had suffered a full stroke. Once that had dawned on them, it was a blue light run to hospital. That was an hour lost when I could have been thrombalised and, that hour may have helped to retain my full eyesight.

In non-COVID times, I am a mystery patient for medical students. A group of third years who were examining me had never heard of FAST. The GP who was moderating had to explain in detail.

Both of those experiences are concerning. Perhaps the awareness of FAST is needed in the medical community as well as the public.