Stroke

A medical emergency where blood supply to part of the brain is cut off or a blood vessel bursts. Quick treatment saves brain function and lives.

BrainEmergencyLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Sudden face drooping, arm or leg weakness on one side, slurred speech, confusion, vision loss, severe headache or loss of balance.

Common Treatments

Emergency treatment to restore blood flow or stop bleeding, then rehabilitation and medicines to prevent another stroke.

Risk Factors

High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, atrial fibrillation, high cholesterol, heart disease and older age.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Most strokes are ischaemic, caused by a clot blocking a blood vessel in the brain. Others are haemorrhagic, caused by bleeding in or around the brain.

Use BE-FAST to recognise a stroke: Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time to call 112. Clot-busting treatment works best within a few hours.

Symptoms

Face drooping

One side of the face droops or feels numb.

Arm or leg weakness

Sudden weakness or numbness on one side.

Speech problems

Slurred speech or difficulty understanding.

Vision loss or severe headache

Sudden blurred vision or the worst headache of your life.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Blocked blood flow (from a clot or narrowed artery) or bleeding in the brain, which starves brain cells of oxygen.

Key Risk Factors

  • High blood pressure The biggest risk factor.
  • Atrial fibrillation Causes clots that can travel to the brain.
  • Smoking, diabetes and cholesterol Damage blood vessels.

Management & Treatment

01. Emergency treatment

Clot-busting medicine or clot removal for ischaemic stroke; specialist care for bleeding.

02. Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy to regain skills.

03. Prevention

Blood pressure control, blood thinners or antiplatelets, statins and lifestyle changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mini-stroke (TIA)?
Stroke symptoms that go away within 24 hours. It's a warning sign and needs urgent assessment.
Why is time important?
Brain cells die quickly without blood. Faster treatment means better recovery.
Can stroke be prevented?
Many strokes can be prevented by controlling blood pressure, not smoking and treating AF.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.