Major stroke warning ahead of brutal festive storms - cold weather could trigger deadly attacks that are surging in younger patients
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Health experts today warned Brits that plummeting temperatures may raise the likelihood of suffering a debilitating stroke. Low temperatures have long been known to increase the risks to vulnerable patients including the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions such as respiratory diseases.
![[Stroke symptoms are commonly remembered under this four-letter acronym, FAST. Patients experiencing a stroke can often have their face drop on one side, struggle to lift both arms and have slurred speech, while time is essential, as immediate treatment for a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke can substantially slash the risk of a much deadlier major stroke]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/17/09/69553499-14200717-Stroke_symptoms_are_commonly_remembered_under_this_four_letter_a-a-2_1734426125091.jpg)
But research shows strokes are also more likely during the colder months, with freezing temperatures increasing blood pressure and clotting risks — key triggers for the potentially fatal condition. According to the latest forecast, the UK will see temperatures plummet ahead of Christmas with some areas of Scotland seeing lows of -3C.
![[Other - just as common - tell-tale signs of a looming stroke, often fall under the radar. These include sudden numbness on one side of the body, sudden vertigo and difficulty swallowing]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/17/09/69553495-14200717-Other_just_as_common_tell_tale_signs_of_a_looming_stroke_often_f-a-1_1734426121319.jpg)
Arctic air heading to the UK brings with it frosts, ice and snow showers while heavy storms are more likely in southern England and Wales over the festive season. It also comes days after concerning NHS data showed the ambulances took an average of 42 minutes to respond to category two calls, including strokes, in November.
![[Strokes affect more than 100,000 Britons annually — one every five minutes — claiming 38,000 lives]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/17/10/93226931-14200717-image-a-12_1734431777935.jpg)
This is more than twice as long as the 18 minute target. A fresh MailOnline analysis of health service data earlier this month found strokes among men aged under 39 have jumped by nearly a quarter over the last two decades. . Experts said the delays, coupled with increased winter risks, leaves survivors at greater risk of permanent disability placing further strain on the NHS.
Without prompt treatment a stroke can result in death or long-term disabilities such as paralysis, memory loss and communication problems. Carolina Fransen, co-founder of Alvica, said: 'The sad reality here is that ambulance delays for strokes can cost lives or people's futures.
