Today is World Stroke Day, so to raise awareness, our team on Ebony ward held an information stand yesterday for staff and patients to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of stroke and how 'minutes can save lives' - which is the event's key theme this year.
One in four of us will have a stroke in our lifetime. Although the incidents of stroke increases with age, 60% of strokes happen to people under the age of 70.
A stroke happens when blood supply to a part of the brain is cut off. Due to the lack of blood supply, the brain cells become damaged. A stroke could be caused either by of blockage to a blood vessel that cuts off blood supply to the brain (Ischaemic) or due to bleeding in the brain (haemorrhagic).
Stroke causes disability. Fortunately, there are treatments that can reduce disability. However, these treatments have to be delivered very early on in the stages of stroke. It is therefore important to seek urgent medical help – call 999 when signs of stroke are spotted. Minutes can save lives.
Strokes can be prevented. Good blood pressure control, exercising five times per week, eating a healthy and balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing cholesterol can reduce the risk of stroke. It is important to manage diabetes well, stop smoking and drink alcohol within limits.
DGT will be one of the three regional stroke centres in Kent and Medway. We are making good progress towards establishing the unit.
We are also delighted that we have scored B on the Stroke National Audit over the last 3 quarters. A big thank you to everyone for their hard work and support to make this happen.
Today, we had the pleasure of Christina Bayliss, Stroke Service Delivery coach for the South East and coordinator Tracey Sears from Stroke Association join our stand. We were happy that many visitors and staff to the stand had their blood pressure checked and had a chance to look at information about stroke and took part in a mini quiz.
Stroke Association (www.stroke.org.uk) is a valuable resource for information and support for stroke patients and carers.
Save #Precioustime - click here to watch the official campaign video