THE number of strokes suffered in the north west by both men and women of working age has soared.

Stroke cases occurring in people aged 20-64 have risen by a quarter in the past eight years, according to the Stroke Association.

Chris Larkin, regional head of operations at the Stroke Association, said during Action on Stroke Month: “These figures show that stroke can no longer be seen as a disease of older people.

"There is an alarming increase in the numbers of people having a stroke in working age. This comes at a huge cost, not only to the individual, but also to their families and to health and social care services.

“The simple truth is that we must do more to raise people’s awareness of risk factors, to help prevent them from having a stroke.

"With many more stroke patients now receiving emergency medical treatment, we also need the right health and social care services available. People must have the support they need to make the best possible recovery and avoid having to cope for decades with the disabilities that stroke can bring.”

The stroke cases include hairdresser Lorna Kelly from Stretford, who was just 23 when she had a stroke in May 2014, caused by a hole in her heart.

Initially Lorna was off work for three months before returning in September, but then she needed to have further time off to recover until January 2015.

Now, Lorna’s fatigue has improved and she returned to work full time in March.

She said: “After my stroke, I felt extremely tired and used to have to have a daily nap.

My employer found it difficult to understand what had happened at first, perhaps because I was so young and people don’t normally associate strokes with someone of my age.

“My boss sat down with me and I was able to explain what had happened in more detail so he had a better understanding. I’ve worked at the salon for five years so have built up a strong clientele and I’m really happy to be back enjoying what I do.”

Stroke symptoms -

Facial weakness – the casualty is unable to smile evenly and their mouth or eye may be droopy.

Arm weakness – the casualty is only able to raise one arm.

Speech problems – the casualty is unable to speak clearly.

* The Stroke Association provides advice and practical support to help stroke survivors return to employment. For more information, visit www.stroke.org.uk or call 0303 303 3100.