Keep your pressure in check

Free blood pressure checks are to be offered at a health event in Stirling Community Hospital on Wednesday, June 14.

The checks are part of a presentation by the Stroke Association, who say that up to 80 per cent of all strokes could be avoided if people were aware they were suffering from high blood pressure.

There are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year and the Fast can help recognise some of the most common symptoms:

Facial weakness: Can the person smile? Has their face fallen on one side?

Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms and keep them up?

Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred? Time to call 999 Jessie-Anne Malcolm of NHS Forth Valley said:“How well you recover and how long it takes is different for everyone but making sure you receive treatment quickly will give you the best possible chance of making a good recovery.”

The meeting will also hear from Strathcarron Hospice about support for people with long-term conditions.

There will also be information about the power of attorney process.

The meeting is in Stirling Community Hospital lecture theatre from 7-9pm. Anyone who needs a creche facilities or an interpreter can contact Jessie-Anne on 01324 614660 or email Jessie.malcolm@ nhs.net.