Andrew Gwynne, MP for Denton and Reddish, is urging constituents to call 999 if they see signs of a stroke following a large reduction in the number of stroke patients since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Hospitals across England are reporting a large reduction in their number of stroke patients. Since Coronavirus hit, A&E and stroke wards have been a lot quieter than usual. It is believed that people have become reluctant to call 999 when they see signs of a stroke, either because they do not wish to burden the NHS or fear contracting the virus in hospital.
This has concerned the Stroke Association. Strokes are medical emergencies. The quicker patients are treated, the better their chances of recovery. Delayed treatment often causes unnecessary deaths and long-term disabilities.
People who see signs of a stroke are being urged to still seek emergency help.
Andrew Gwynne MP said:
“I am extremely concerned about the large reduction in the number of stroke patients in English hospitals.
“The Stroke Association are right – Coronavirus or no Coronavirus, strokes are medical emergencies, and delays to treatment may cause unnecessary deaths and long-term disabilities.
“This is why I am urging my constituents to seek emergency help and call 999 if they see signs of a stroke.”