Portsmouth Stroke Services

The Portsmouth area (includes Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Waterlooville, Emsworth, Hayling Island, Petersfield) has been served by a Stroke Service since 1994.

In our district approximately 1300 people will have a new stroke every year.

Stroke care is organised into Acute Stroke Care, Rehabilitation and also links with many existing services within health, social and other organisations.

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when the blood supply to or within the brain is suddenly interrupted. This may be as a result of a bleed (Brain Haemorrhage) or a blocked artery (Ischaemic Stroke).

Further information can be found on the Stroke Association web site at www.stroke.org.uk

Stroke is a Medical Emergency

Stroke is a medical emergency and anyone with stroke symptoms should dial 999 and ask for ambulance services.

Signs and Syptoms of a Stroke

There is a very simple test to help recognise the signs of a stroke. Simply remember FAST

Face - facial weakness - can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
Arm - arm weakness - can the person raise both arms?
Speech - speech problems - can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
Test - test all three symptoms

A stroke will be suspected If any of these are present 

Acute Stroke Care

The ambulance crew will take the person to the Accident and Emergency Department department where assessments will be made.

It is likely that an admission to the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) is necessary and will be organised if a stroke is suspected. Along side medical and nursing care the Clinical Stroke Coordinator sees as many patients as possible and advises on stroke care. As soon as an acute stroke bed is available a transfer will be arranged. 

There are 25 acute stroke beds, divided between Mary and Anne Wards in South Block at Queen Alexandra Hospital. Depending on demand, a bed is not always available and it may be necessary to arrange a transfer to a general medical bed instead.

Stroke affects each person in very diffferent ways depending on the type of stroke and area of the brain affected.

Rehabilitation

When the person's condition is stable transfer to rehabilitation will be arranged. Not everyone will benefit from rehabilitation. This will be discussed with the person and their family.

In-patient rehabilitation will be organised according to home address and age.

People under the age of 65 years may receive in-patient rehabilitation in the Phoenix Unit at Haslar Hospital.

People over 65 years of age may receive rehabilitation in a ward close to their home:

Cedar Ward, Peterfield Community Hospital

Dryad Ward, Gosport War Memorial Hospital

Guernsey Ward, St Mary's Hospital

For Portsmouth City and South East Hampshire residents going home with the Community Stroke Rehabilitation Team may also be considered.