First Aid if You Suspect a Stroke
With Stroke Awareness Month coming up in May, we wanted to make sure everyone knows how to recognise the signs and what to do in an emergency.
A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, either by a blood clot or a burst blood vessel. Every minute counts during a stroke, as prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce long-term disability. In any one year there are around 120,000 cases of stroke. Knowing how to recognise and respond to stroke symptoms is crucial knowledge that could help save someone’s life.
The FAST method: your first line of defence
The FAST method is the most reliable way to identify common stroke symptoms. This simple acronym stands for:
Face: Ask the person to smile. If one side of their face droops or appears uneven, this could indicate a stroke.
Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downward or they cannot lift it, this is another warning sign.
Speech: Ask them to repeat a simple phrase. Slurred, garbled speech, or difficulty finding words could signal a stroke.
Time: If you observe any of these signs, it is time to call 999 immediately. Note the time when symptoms first appeared, as this information is vital for medical teams.
Other stroke symptoms to watch for
Whilst the FAST test identifies many strokes, other symptoms may include:
- Sudden severe headache with no obvious cause
- Unexpected dizziness or loss of balance
- Confusion or difficulty understanding others.
- Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
- Numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body
Immediate actions to take.
Once you suspect someone is having a stroke, follow these essential steps:
- Call emergency services straight away. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve – stroke treatment is time-critical. The sooner someone receives medical attention, the better their chances of recovery, and the first hour is the most important.
- Whilst waiting for the ambulance, keep the person calm and comfortable. Help them sit or lie down to prevent falling and loosen any tight clothing around their neck. Stay with them and monitor their condition, noting any changes to report to paramedics.
- If the person is conscious, keep them in a comfortable position, typically with their head and shoulders slightly raised. Do not offer them food or drink, as they may have difficulty swallowing.
If they become unconscious but are breathing, place them in the recovery position. Monitor their breathing continuously until emergency services arrive.
What Not to Do
Avoiding common mistakes which could potentially worsen the situation is critical.
- Do not give them medication, especially aspirin or other blood-thinning drugs. Whilst aspirin is used in some stroke cases, it can be dangerous if the stroke is caused by bleeding in the brain rather than a clot.
- Do not attempt to move them unless absolutely necessary for safety. Movement could cause further harm if they have fallen or are unstable.
- Do not dismiss or downplay symptoms, even if they seem to improve. Some people experience transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs or mini strokes) where symptoms temporarily resolve, but these still require urgent medical attention.
After the Emergency
Document everything you observed, including the timeline of symptoms and any relevant medical history you are aware of. This information can be valuable for medical teams.
Support does not end when emergency services arrive. Recovery from stroke often requires long-term rehabilitation and support. Familiarise yourself with local stroke support services and resources that might benefit stroke survivors and their families.
Prevention and risk awareness
Understanding stroke risk factors can help prevent future occurrences. Key risk factors include:
High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and physical inactivity. Regular medical check-ups and lifestyle modifications can help manage these risks.
Remember, acting quickly and confidently when you suspect a stroke can make a crucial difference in someone’s recovery. Keep the FAST method in mind, trust your instincts, and never hesitate to call emergency services if you are concerned. Time lost is brain lost during a stroke, but prompt action and appropriate first aid can help save lives and reduce the likelihood of permanent disability.
By staying informed about stroke symptoms and appropriate first aid responses, you are better equipped to help someone in crisis. Share this knowledge with family and friends – the life you save could be someone close to you. Remember, when in doubt, call emergency services – it is better to be cautious than to risk making a situation worse with incorrect actions.
