Recognising symptoms using the F.A.S.T. test (face, arms, speech, time) is essential for early intervention.
By Blua | Digital health by Bupa
Recognising symptoms using the F.A.S.T. test (face, arms, speech, time) is essential for early intervention.
Simple lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a healthy diet and managing blood pressure, can significantly reduce stroke risk.
This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding (haemorrhage) in or around the brain. It's usually caused by chronic hypertension and conditions like an aneurysm.
6 minute read
Published 5 February 2025
There are 2 types of stroke: ischaemic (blockage) and haemorrhagic (bleeding).
Every 19 minutes, one Australian will experience their first stroke,1 a sudden and life-altering event. Imagine sitting across from someone who suddenly loses their ability to speak or move their arm. This is the reality of stroke, one of our nation's biggest killers and a leading cause of disability.
But knowledge is power. Understanding what a stroke is, how to spot the signs and what action to take can save a life, whether it's yours or someone you love.
A stroke is when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, which prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching it, killing brain cells. This can happen in 3 ways:
Without immediate treatment, the brain cells begin to die, leading to permanent damage or even death. Think of it like a power outage in your body's control centre; the quicker the power is restored, the less damage there is.
This is the most common type of stroke and is caused by blockages in the brain's blood vessels. There are 2 types of ischaemic strokes:
Often called a 'mini-stroke', a TIA is a temporary blockage that resolves on its own within a few minutes or hours. While a TIA may cause temporary stroke-like symptoms, it's different from a stroke as it doesn't damage brain cells or cause permanent disability.
It is, however, a serious warning sign of a future stroke and shouldn't be ignored.
The faster a stroke is recognised and treated, the better the outcome. Use the F.A.S.T. test to identify the warning signs:
While some risk factors like age and family history can't be changed, others are within your control. These small steps can make a big difference:
Understanding stroke is the first step in protecting yourself and your loved ones. By learning the causes, symptoms and preventive measures, you can take control of your health and reduce the risk of stroke.
If yours or someone else's life is in danger, dial 000 immediately.
The Stroke Foundation offers comprehensive guides on prevention, treatment and recovery. You can also call StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 for advice and to be connected to services for survivors, family and carers.
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Our health and wellbeing information is regularly reviewed and maintained by a team of healthcare experts, to ensure its relevancy and accuracy. Everyone's health journey is unique and health outcomes vary from person to person.
This content is not a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare, or other professional advice. If you have concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.
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1Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2024). Data tables: Heart, stroke and vascular disease: Australian facts. Australian Government, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
