Acting Fast: What to Do When a Stroke Happens

A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate action. Recognizing the signs of a stroke and knowing what to do can save lives and reduce the risk of long-term disability. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the steps to take when a stroke occurs.

Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke: The F.A.S.T. Method

The most common way to recognize a stroke is the F.A.S.T. test:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

• Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred or strange?

• Time: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.

  
  

Doctors and stroke organizations also recommend the expanded BE-FAST checklist, which adds two important signs:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance, dizziness, or unsteadiness.

• Eyes: Sudden blurred or double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

  
  

Why speed matters: Every minute during a stroke, millions of brain cells die. Acting quickly increases the chance that clot-busting treatments or procedures can be used, improving outcomes and reducing long-term disability.

Immediate Steps to Take

• Call Emergency Services: Time is critical in treating a stroke. The sooner medical treatment begins, the better the chances for recovery. Do not wait to see if the symptoms go away.

• Note the Time of First Symptoms: It’s crucial to note when the first symptoms appeared. This information is vital for healthcare providers as it can influence treatment decisions.

• Stay Calm and Offer Support: Keep the person calm and comfortable. If they are conscious, reassure them that help is on the way. Do not give them anything to eat or drink.

• Ensure Safety: If the person is in danger of falling or has fallen, help them to a safe position. Do not move them unnecessarily if they are injured.

While Waiting for Emergency Services

• Monitor the Person’s Condition: Keep an eye on their symptoms and be ready to provide this information to the emergency responders.

• Loosen Tight Clothing: Ensure they are breathing comfortably by loosening any tight clothing, especially around the neck.

• Prepare Information for Paramedics: If possible, gather details about the person’s medical history, current medications, and any known allergies. Having this information ready can speed up treatment once paramedics arrive.

What Not to Do

• Do Not Drive to the Hospital: Driving instead of calling an ambulance wastes valuable time. Emergency medical services can start treatment en route and alert the hospital in advance, saving precious minutes.

• Do Not Ignore Symptoms: Even if the symptoms are mild or come and go, take them seriously. Sometimes stroke symptoms appear briefly and then vanish. This may be a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often called a “mini-stroke,” which is a warning sign of a future, more serious stroke.
  

After Emergency Care

• Follow the Medical Team’s Instructions: This includes rehabilitation programs such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, which are crucial for recovery.

  
  

• Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Manage blood pressure, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and quit smoking to reduce the risk of another stroke.

  
  

• Be Stroke-Ready: Keep a medical summary handy with medications, allergies, and emergency contacts. This preparation can save time in future emergencies.

The Bottom Line

Knowing what to do when a stroke happens can make the difference between life and death, or between independence and disability. Remember the F.A.S.T. and BE-FAST methods, act immediately, and call emergency services. Every second counts—your quick response can save a life.