Every day in the UK, another 240 people wake up to the catastrophic impact of a stroke. 

It’s a traumatic, life-changing event that robs survivors and their families of the life they knew. 

It can leave people unable to move, see, speak or even swallow. Survivors can also be left with personality changes and depression.

But with strength, determination and the right support, recovery is possible.

Learn Stroke Signs and Symptoms

Stroke can happen to anyone, of any age, at any time. It's vital to know how to spot the signs of a stroke in yourself or someone else.

Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention as every minute is vital. If you experience or spot any of the below, don’t wait. Call 999 straight away.

The FAST acronym (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) is a test to quickly identify the three most common signs of stroke.

• Face weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
• Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms fully and keep them there?
• Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred
• Time to call 999: if you see any one of these signs.

The FAST test helps spot the three most common signs of stroke. But there are other signs and symptoms that you should always take seriously. These include:

• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, including legs, hands or feet.
• Difficulty finding words or speaking in clear sentences.
• Sudden blurred vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes.
• Sudden memory loss or confusion.
• Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall.
• A sudden, severe headache.

If you spot any one of these signs or symptoms, don't wait. Call 999 straight away.