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NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Urges Public to Act FAST on Stroke Symptoms

Health board shares vital information on recognising stroke signs and the importance of immediate emergency response.

Generic image of a medical alert symbol.
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Generic image of a medical alert symbol.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is reminding residents of the key signs of stroke and urging them to act FAST if they suspect someone is having one.

People across Greater Glasgow and Clyde are being urged to recognise the main signs of stroke and act immediately by calling 999. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is sharing a video featuring Professor Terry Quinn, Stroke Consultant, and Nicola Tomlinson, Hyperacute Stroke Specialist Nurse, who explain the FAST test and the critical importance of reaching a hospital as soon as possible.
They emphasise that rapid medical help can significantly improve a person’s recovery from a stroke and can be the difference between life and death. Specialist thrombolysis services, a procedure to dissolve stroke-causing blood clots and restore blood flow to the brain, are available at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, and the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley. This treatment must be administered within the first few hours of symptom onset, as delays can lead to substantial loss of brain tissue and functional abilities.
Professor Quinn and Nicola Tomlinson highlighted the main symptoms, easily remembered using the ‘FAST’ test: Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, and Time to call 999. The test involves checking if the person’s face has fallen on one side, if they can raise both arms, and if their speech is slurred or garbled. If any of these signs are present, it is crucial to dial 999 immediately.
While the FAST test identifies most strokes, occasional symptoms can include problems with balance and coordination, a sudden and severe headache, or loss of feeling on one side of the body. Thrombolysis is particularly effective for ischaemic strokes, which constitute about 85% of all cases. The therapeutic window for this treatment is typically a few hours, underscoring the need for urgent action.
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"If you suspect a stroke, it is vital that you or the person you are concerned about get to hospital as quickly as possible. Acting quickly could greatly improve their outcome and recovery, and could even save their life. The main signs of a stroke can be easily remembered as the ‘FAST’ test, and if you recognise any of these symptoms you must dial 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance. The delivery of thrombolysis treatment within the first few hours of symptoms starting can ensure blood flow to the brain is restored quickly, reducing the risk of disability and other lasting effects in stroke survivors."

Professor Terry Quinn · Stroke Consultant at Glasgow Royal Infirmary
For further information on strokes, the public can visit NHS Inform.
Based on information from the official source: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (29/10/2026)

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