Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS website.
Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or view any of our Previous A to Z Features.
You should also know that OutUK has produced a special report about: Coronavirus Covid-19.

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This Week - S : Stroke

Check for signs of a stroke

The main symptoms of a stroke can happen suddenly. They may include:

  • face weakness - one side of your face may droop (fall) and it might be hard to smile
  • arm weakness - you may not be able to fully lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in 1 arm
  • speech problems - you may slur your words or sound confused

The easiest way to remember these symptoms is the word FAST. This stands for: face, arms, speech and time to call 999.

Other symptoms of a stroke

There are other signs that you or someone else is having a stroke. These include:

  • weakness or numbness down 1 side of your body
  • blurred vision or loss of sight in 1 or both eyes
  • finding it difficult to speak or think of words
  • confusion and memory loss
  • feeling dizzy or falling over
  • a severe headache
  • feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)

Symptoms of a stroke can sometimes stop after a short time, so you may think you're OK. Even if this happens, get medical help straight away.

A stroke is more likely to happen if you're older, but it can happen at any age.

Find out more

Call 999 now if:

  • you think you're having, or have had a stroke
  • you've had signs of a stroke within the last 24 hours even if they've now stopped

Do not drive yourself to A&E.

The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do.



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We'll have more information and advice next week on another topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features.

If you want to find out more about this week's subject you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.

 

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