When it comes to strokes, time is brain. Every minute that passes during a stroke can result in the loss of millions of brain cells, which is why knowing how to respond is critical. At Community Neuroscience Services, we emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of stroke and acting quickly to get medical help. In this post, we’ll walk you through what to do—and what not to do—if someone you’re with experiences a stroke.
Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke
The first step in responding to a stroke is recognizing it. Use the acronym FAST to identify the most common symptoms:
- F: Face drooping – Is one side of the face drooping or numb? Ask the person to smile.
- A: Arm weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one drifts downward.
- S: Speech difficulty – Is their speech slurred or strange? Ask them to repeat a simple sentence.
- T: Time to call 911 – If you observe any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
Other signs of a stroke may include sudden confusion, trouble seeing in one or both eyes, difficulty walking, dizziness, or a severe headache with no known cause.
What to Do if Someone Is Having a Stroke
- Call 911 Immediately
The first and most important action is to call emergency services. Tell them you suspect a stroke so they can dispatch help quickly. - Keep the Person Calm and Still
Help the person sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Try to keep them calm and reassure them that help is on the way. - Note the Time
Record the time you first noticed symptoms. This information is critical because certain stroke treatments, like clot-busting medications, need to be administered within a specific time frame. - Clear the Area
Make sure the person is safe. If they’re in a crowded or hazardous location, move them to a quieter, safer spot. - Loosen Tight Clothing
Gently loosen any restrictive clothing, like ties or scarves, to ensure they’re as comfortable as possible.
What NOT to Do if Someone Is Having a Stroke
- Don’t Delay Calling for Help
Do not try to “wait it out” or see if the symptoms improve on their own. Time is critical—delaying medical attention can result in worse outcomes. - Don’t Give Them Food, Drinks, or Medication
Swallowing can be impaired during a stroke, so giving food, water, or medication could cause choking. Even aspirin should be avoided unless advised by a medical professional. - Don’t Let Them Drive to the Hospital
Never allow the person to drive themselves, even if they insist. They need an ambulance where trained professionals can provide care en route. - Don’t Panic
Staying calm helps the person feel less anxious and can make the situation easier to manage.
Why Time Matters
In the case of an ischemic stroke, where a blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain, clot-busting medication (tPA) can often be administered if the person reaches the hospital within a few hours of symptom onset. For hemorrhagic strokes, prompt treatment is also essential to stop bleeding and minimize damage. Acting quickly could save the person’s life and significantly improve their chances of recovery.
Stroke Prevention Tips
While it’s crucial to know what to do in the event of a stroke, prevention is equally important. Here are some tips to reduce your risk:
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Exercise regularly to keep your heart and blood vessels healthy.
- Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or atrial fibrillation.
We’re Here to Help
At Community Neuroscience Services, we’re committed to educating and empowering our patients and their families about neurological health. If you have questions about stroke prevention, treatment, or recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Remember: when it comes to strokes, every second counts, so be prepared to act FAST.
