With many people unaware of the signs and effects of strokes, Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics are urging locals to learn the FAST signs of a stroke.
A stroke occurs when blood is unable to get to the brain due to a blocked and/or burst artery, meaning the brain cells aren’t receiving the required oxygen.
Strokes are one of Victoria’s biggest killers, as every 19 minutes someone in Australia suffers from one, and many people don’t even realise it’s happening to a person. Here’s how to tell:
FAST signs of a stroke
Face check: Has their mouth drooped?
Arms: Can they lift both arms?
Speech: Is speech slurred?
Time is crucial: If the above signs are present, call 000 immediately.