What Is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing oxygen from reaching brain tissue. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die — making stroke a medical emergency.
There are two main types of strokes:
- Ischaemic stroke: Caused by a blockage or clot in an artery supplying blood to the brain (accounts for ~85% of cases).
- Haemorrhagic stroke: Caused by a blood vessel rupture, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.
Recognising the Early Signs: Think F.A.S.T
Knowing the signs can save a life. Use the F.A.S.T. test to identify a stroke quickly:
Letter | Meaning | What to Check |
F | Face | Is one side drooping when they smile? |
A | Arms | Can they raise both arms? Does one drift down? |
S | Speech | Is their speech slurred or strange? |
T | Time | Call 000 immediately — every minute counts. |
Even if symptoms appear to improve, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Common Stroke Symptoms
- Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg — especially on one side
- Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination
- Severe headache with no known cause
Key Risk Factors
Some risks can’t be changed, but many are preventable with the right lifestyle and medical support.
Non-modifiable risks:
- Age (risk increases after 55)
- Family history
- Previous stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
Modifiable risks:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Lack of physical activity
How to Reduce Your Risk
Preventive care is key. Here are practical steps to lower your stroke risk:
- Have regular blood pressure checks with your GP.
- Manage diabetes and cholesterol through diet, exercise, and medication if prescribed.
- Quit smoking — your GP can guide you through support programs.
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- Monitor your heart health, especially if you have atrial fibrillation (AF).
Life After Stroke: Recovery and Support
Stroke recovery often requires a team-based approach, including:
- GP-led medical follow-ups
- Allied health support such as physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy
- Lifestyle counselling for ongoing risk management
At Metro Medical Centre Springfield, our doctors provide chronic disease management plans and referrals to allied health services to support your recovery and help prevent another stroke.
When to See Your GP
If you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, regular GP visits can make a significant difference. Early detection and management can help prevent serious complications.
📍 Visit Metro Medical Centre Springfield — your trusted local GP team near Orion and Springfield Lakes.
💻 Book online today to discuss your health check or chronic disease plan.
