Last updated at 17:06, Friday, 30 October 2009

HEALTH officials are urging people to learn to recognise the signs of strokes and how to treat sufferers.

Between 2007 and 2008 more than 11,000 people in Cumbria suffered a stroke and last year 557 people in the county died following a stroke.

The public are being reminded that strokes can be prevented and treated if people know what to do. Dr John Howarth, a GP who works with NHS Cumbria's neurological services, said: “Recognising the early symptoms of a stroke is vital in our battle to help prevent death or severe disability. It's important that people know what to look out for and aren't slow to act if they're worried, as those few moments could be crucial.”

A stroke is a loss of brain function that is caused by a blood clot or bleeding in the brain but long-term disability can be avoided if treated early.

People are advised to learn the stages of the FAST campaign to help stroke sufferers – Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Time to call 999.

Dr Howarth said: “The best way to reduce your chance of a stroke is by living a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise and try not to smoke or drink too much alcohol.”

First published at 13:13, Friday, 30 October 2009
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk