A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood stops flowing to a part of your brain, causing brain cells to be deprived of oxygen.
In the UK, around 100,000 people suffer a stroke every year, and many live with the long-term effects.
This article will help you spot stroke symptoms and understand the causes and effects.
A stroke often happens suddenly, and swift treatment is critical. The simplest way to remember the main symptoms is FAST:
Face: drooping or numbness on one side of the face; inability to smile evenly
Arms: weakness or numbness in one arm or leg; inability to raise both arms evenly
Speech: slurred words, difficulty speaking or sounding confused
Time: time to call 999 immediately if any of these symptoms are present
Other possible signs include:
Even if symptoms disappear, they must be treated as a medical emergency.
A stroke can happen to anyone at any age. Although it’s difficult to identify one single cause, there are specific factors which can increase the risk of stroke, including:
Some medical conditions also increase the risk of stroke, including:
Your family’s medical history, ethnic background, and chronic stress can also contribute to your risk level.
The impact of a stroke depends on which part of the brain is affected, the extent of the damage caused, the speed of treatment, and individual circumstances. The effects of a stroke may include:
Motor deficits – weakness or paralysis often on one side; impaired coordination, difficulty walking or balancing
Sensory changes – numbness or altered sensation in part of the body
Speech and language problems – difficulty with speech, comprehension, reading, writing
Swallowing difficulties
Cognitive issues – memory loss, difficulties with attention, planning and problem-solving
Emotional and psychological effects – depression, mood changes, and increased anxiety
Visual problems – loss of part of the visual field, double vision
Communication and social impact – difficulties in interaction, frustration, and social isolation
Secondary complications include bladder or bowel incontinence, risk of chest infections, deep vein thrombosis, and pressure sores.
Some people recover fully or partially, while others experience long-term effects and may need ongoing support, such as in-home care. Recovery is often a long, gradual process, and no two recovery pathways are the same.
Initial hospital care & acute interventions: After arrival at the hospital, a brain scan (CT or MRI) helps to determine the type of stroke, guide treatment (e.g. clot-busting thrombolysis, thrombectomy, or neurosurgery) and reduce further damage.
Rehabilitation begins as soon as medically feasible. Multidisciplinary teams (including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and psychologists) set goals and deliver tailored therapy.
Duration & expectations: Recovery can be slow, but progress often continues for months or years.
Home adaptations & support: People may need home modifications (e.g. grab rails, ramps), assistive devices, and ongoing support from a domiciliary care provider.
Emotional and psychological support: Acceptance, mental health care, counselling, and peer support are often important for dealing with emotional challenges.
Prevention of further strokes: During recovery and beyond, controlling risk factors and following medical advice is vital to reduce recurrence.
The Stroke Association provides support services and guidance for life after stroke, helping survivors and families navigate long-term care and rehabilitation.
Apollo Care Liverpool offers in-home care to provide families in our community with the support they need, where they feel most comfortable.
Home care can help stroke survivors with:
Call 0151 944 2119 for a friendly chat with one of our care experts about home care options for you or your loved one.
Read our Understanding a Stroke article for more help and advice.