Strokesafe volunteer Michelle Coad wants the Port Macquarie community to be more informed about strokes.
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Or precisely what to do to prevent one.
Ms Code is based in Port Macquarie and delivered a special presentation on strokes at Port Macquarie-Hastings Library on May 31.
The Stroke Foundation recommends the F.A.S.T. test as an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke.
Using the F.A.S.T. test involves asking some simple questions:
- Face - Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
- Arms - Can they lift both arms?
- Speech - Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
- Time is critical - If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.
Ms Coad told the audience it is important to go to the hospital as soon as possible if someone exhibits these symptoms.
"People may not realise that treatment can prevent you from having a lifelong disability if you get treatment within four hours of onset of your stroke," Ms Code said.
Ms Code said 80 per cent of strokes are preventable.
"Healthy eating is important.
"A low fat diet, five serves of vegetables, two serves of fruit.
"Moderate exercise 30 minutes a day, five days a week is also important."
For more information contact the Stroke Foundation.
