It A charity warned that the Omicron variant is expected to increase stroke cases this winter.
Stroke Association says potential stroke victims delay seeking treatment because they do not want to be burdened by the NHS.
It fears that strokes will drop to a level similar to what was experienced at the outbreak of the pandemic.
A charity warned that the Omicron variant will increase strokes this winter (file image).
Nearly a third (33%) of stroke survivors who had suffered a stroke in March or June 2013 said that they were unable to seek medical attention because Covid was not available.
During this period, acute stroke admissions fell 10.3 per cent in England, Wales and Northern Ireland – the equivalent of more than 2,000 admissions.
According to the charity, this year’s reported delays in ambulances is expected to increase feelings of being a burden for the NHS.
According to the charity, data also showed that more people have unmanaged high blood pressure or other risk factors for stroke this year.
According to the charity, this year’s reported delays in ambulances is expected to make it more difficult for patients and staff to use the NHS.
Juliet Bouverie, Stroke Association stated: “When Covid cases increase as fast as they are now, it sets off alarm bells.
“We understand that people are afraid to visit the hospital when strokes occur, but it is life-threatening.
“Fear of Covid, and feeling like a heavy burden on the NHS kept people from calling 999.”
“This will likely be worse than usual this Christmas because of news regarding ambulance delays.”