PEOPLE in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area are being reminded to think ‘FAST’ to recognise the signs of a stroke and seek emergency help.

NHS Fife, in partnership with Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS), is highlighting the importance of seeking urgent help when a stroke is suspected. The FAST message, developed by leading clinicians, focuses on key areas relating to the physical impact of a stroke, along with the critical importance of calling emergency services.

Stroke is a form of ‘brain attack’ and the damage caused can often be hidden from view. The earlier that emergency treatment is initiated, the greater the opportunity for recovery. Dialling 999 and seeking emergency help can limit further damage to the brain and could even save a life.

To spot the signs of stroke, remember the word FAST:- F – is for Face: can the person smile? Does one side of their face droop?

A – is for Arm: can the person lift both arms? Is one arm weak?

S – is for Speech: is the person’s speech slurred or muddled?

T – is for Time: time to call, 999 if you see these signs As part of the campaign, nearly 40,000 leaflets will be distributed through local pharmacies in Fife and the FAST message will also be displayed on 15 buses across the Kingdom.

Staff from NHS Fife and CHSS will be on hand at Dunfermline Athletic’s game against Stenhousemuir on 14 February and Raith Rovers’ match against Rangers on 21 February, to remind supporters of how best to spot the signs of stroke. The campaign will also visit Diageo’s Leven plant and the FMC Technologies facility in Dunfermline to help spread the message to staff.

NHS Fife Consultant, Dr Sue Pound said, “A stroke or ‘brain attack’ is the most common cause of physical disability and the third leading cause of death in the UK.

“Early treatment is vital to prevent further damage, and some treatments such as thrombolysis (clot busting drugs) can only be given in the first few hours after a stroke. Brain cells die very quickly when starved of oxygen, so ‘time is brain’.

“FAST is a very good way of identifying stroke early.” David Clark, Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland added, “Stroke can happen to anyone at any age. Over 600 people every year are admitted to hospital in Fife after a stroke.

“The FAST message highlights that stroke is a medical emergency. You can’t see the damage it causes but emergency treatment can make all the difference to your chances of making the best possible recovery.”