Stroke warning from town's hospital

PEOPLE in Warrington are being urged to look out for the early warning signs and symptoms of a stroke – the UK’s third most common cause of death.
Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust sees on average more than 600 patients a year suffering from a stroke or a TIA – Transient Ischemic Attack.
The acute stroke unit at Warrington Hospital works to meet the growing need for stroke care and provide some of the best possible care and rehabilitation in the region – but health chiefs say prevention remains better than the cure.
Lead stroke consultant Dr Otaiku said: “Most people affected by a stroke are over 65 but a stroke can affect anyone of any age so it’s essential we all know what to do if someone is having a stroke and how we can prevent one.
“We advise our patients that the best ways to reduce their risk is to enjoy a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, regularly do some exercise which can be as simple as going for a walk or cleaning around the house, and keep alcohol intake to a minimum.”
A stroke is the brain’s version of a heart attack. It happens when the blood and oxygen supply to the brain is disrupted. Most strokes occur when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the brain but some strokes are caused by bleeding in or around the brain from a burst blood vessel.
This causes sudden symptoms such as loss of vision, leg and arm weakness and slurring of speech. Anyone with any of these symptoms should dial 999 or go straight to A&E.
Dr Otaiku said: “A TIA is a mini-stroke when symptoms are less than 24 hours, however a full blown stroke occurs when the symptoms last longer than 24 hours, our aim is to get everyone to hospital for immediate assessment and treatment quickly.
“If the person is seen within three hours of onset of symptoms a clot-bursting injection could be given to limit the damage.”