CENTRAL DEVON MP Mel Stride has responded to an appeal from the Stroke Association to urge his constituents to call 999 if they see the signs of a stroke. The plea follows reports from hospitals across England that there has been a large reduction in the number of stroke patients, with A&Es and stroke wards much quieter than usual. Reports suggest that people are reluctant to call 999 either to avoid being a burden to the NHS or fearing contact with the virus in hospital.
Mr Stride said:
“A stroke is a serious medical emergency and the quicker someone begins to be treated the better their chances of making a good recovery. Failing to dial 999 when you should might lead to an unnecessary death or a long-term disability. Our NHS has not been overwhelmed by the coronavirus pandemic and continues to have the capacity to treat emergencies.”
The main symptoms of stroke are someone’s speech – it may be slurred, the person may not be able to talk at all or have problems understanding what you’re saying, their face – it may have dropped on one side or they might not be able to smile, and their arms – the person may not be able to lift both arms because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
