A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage or a rupture. This interruption deprives brain cells of the oxygen and nutrients they need to function. Healthcare providers often use the phrase “time is brain” because approximately 1.9 million brain cells are lost every minute a stroke goes untreated. Immediate action is necessary to minimize potential damage, disability, and death. The actions taken in the first few minutes can significantly affect the outcome of a stroke, which is why recognizing the signs and reacting quickly is so important. This information will guide you through the immediate, life-saving steps to take when a stroke is suspected.
Recognizing the Signs of Stroke
Recognizing the sudden onset of specific physical changes is the first step in responding to a stroke. The widely used F.A.S.T. acronym provides a simple framework for identifying the most common symptoms.
The “F” in F.A.S.T. stands for Face drooping, identified by asking the person to smile and looking for an uneven or lopsided appearance. One side of the mouth or face may droop, or the person may report numbness. The “A” stands for Arm weakness; ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downward or cannot be lifted fully, it is a significant warning sign.
The “S” represents Speech difficulty, which includes slurred words, difficulty repeating a simple sentence, or an inability to understand language. The “T” stands for Time to call the local emergency number, as every second counts.
Even if these symptoms are mild or disappear quickly, immediate medical attention is still required. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or “mini-stroke,” involves temporary symptoms, but it is a strong predictor of a major stroke and must be treated as an emergency. Other sudden symptoms, such as severe headache, trouble walking, loss of balance, or sudden vision changes, should also prompt an immediate emergency call.
Activating Emergency Services
The single most important action to take after recognizing stroke symptoms is to call the local emergency number immediately. Do not attempt to drive the person to the hospital yourself. Emergency medical services (EMS) can begin life-saving treatment en route and alert the hospital’s specialized stroke team before arrival. This coordination allows the hospital to prepare for rapid assessment, which is necessary for time-sensitive treatments.
When speaking with the emergency dispatcher, provide your exact location and clearly state that you suspect a stroke. The most valuable piece of information is the “last known normal” time—the exact time the person was last seen without any symptoms. This time point is the primary factor determining eligibility for acute stroke treatments, such as thrombolytics.
Remain calm and stay on the phone with the dispatcher, as they may provide instructions for care until first responders arrive. Providing precise details about the observed symptoms and the person’s current condition will help the EMS team prepare for the specific medical needs they will face.
Actions While Awaiting Medical Help
Once the emergency call is placed, your focus should shift to ensuring the safety and comfort of the person experiencing the stroke. Encourage the person to remain as still and calm as possible to prevent injury. If they are conscious, help them lie down on a flat surface.
If possible, position them on their side with the head slightly raised and supported. This recovery position helps maintain an open airway and reduces the risk of choking if vomiting occurs. If the person is having difficulty breathing, gently loosen any tight clothing around the neck, such as a collar or scarf.
Do not give the person anything to eat, drink, or take by mouth, including aspirin or other medications. They may have difficulty swallowing, which can lead to choking or aspiration. Aspirin, a blood thinner, can also be harmful if the stroke is caused by bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).
Critical Information for Responders
While waiting for the ambulance, gathering specific medical information is a proactive step that will accelerate treatment once professional help arrives. The most crucial detail to have prepared is the exact time the symptoms began or the “last known normal” time. This information, noted down accurately, directly impacts the viability of administering time-sensitive treatments.
Prepare a list of all current medications the person is taking, paying particular attention to any blood thinners or anti-clotting drugs. Emergency personnel and hospital staff need this information to avoid dangerous drug interactions and determine if specific treatments are safe.
Gather details about existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, as these often complicate stroke care. The full medical history, along with recent drug or supplement use, should be written out clearly to hand to the paramedics. Being able to quickly transfer these details allows the medical team to make rapid, informed decisions upon arrival at the hospital, streamlining the process.