Important INFO - It may one day save a life!

Dre's Fitness Group is all about helping people reach their Health and Fitness goals. This type of message will not be a regular feature of what I post, however it is an area that is close to my heart and I felt a strong need to share this information. 

It may one day not only save your life but perhaps the life of a loved one!

What is a stroke?

A stroke (cerebrovascular accident, CVA, cerebral vascular accident or brain attack) occurs when a part of the brain is damaged or destroyed because it is deprived of blood. 

It is important to be able to recognise the warning signs in order to get medical help as quickly as possible.

Symptoms

By recognising the warning signs of a stroke and taking quick action, you could reduce the likelihood of permanent brain damage or death. 

Warning signs may occur alone or in combination and may last only a few seconds or up to 24 hours and then disappear. These signs should not be ignored. 

The signs of stroke could be one or a combination of:

• weakness, numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg on either or both sides of the body;
• difficulty speaking or understanding;
• dizziness, loss of balance or an unexplained fall;
• loss of vision, sudden blurred or decreased vision in one or both eyes;
• headache — usually severe and of abrupt onset, or a change in the pattern of headaches; and
• difficulty swallowing.

If you recognise any of these in yourself or someone you are with, call 000 immediately. 

The FAST test is an easy way to recognise and remember the most common signs of stroke. Using the FAST test involves asking three simple questions. If the person has a problem with any of these functions, dial triple zero (000) for an ambulance immediately.

Using the FAST test involves asking 3 simple questions: 

• Facial weakness — can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
• Arm weakness — can the person raise both arms?
• Speech difficulty — can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
• Time to act fast — call 000 immediately.

If you suddenly experience any of these symptoms, get to a hospital immediately. Remember, stroke is a life-threatening emergency.
 
NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is;

Ask the person to 'stick' out his/her tongue... If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke.

In loving memory of my Mum - Jacqueline Veronica Davids

I owe who I am to my both of my parents - Thank you!