farmdoc's blog post number 514

Of all diseases, arguably the one whose name is most appropriate is stroke. Because stroke strikes people down. Some types of stroke have a gradual onset. And in others, notably bleeding into the brain, the onset is instantaneous. Bang. One second healthy and well, the next second paralysed and often unable to speak. It’s a devastating disease alright. No question. The best approach to it is to prevent it – especially by ensuring blood pressure’s not high, and controlling heart irregularities. But despite this, stroke will continue to occur. These days, early detection and thus early treatment can restrict progression, resulting in a less severe stroke. National Stroke Week runs from 14-20 September. In conjunction with it, the National Stroke Foundation’s relaunched its campaign to help people recognise the early signs of stroke. It’s called F.A.S.T. – derived from Face (Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?), Arms (Can they lift both arms?), Speech (Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?) and Time (Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call 000 now!). I think it’s a good campaign: simple and catchy. I hope it results in less severe strokes, and that it saves lives.