Every second counts when someone is having a stroke, and swift action can mean the difference between full recovery, lasting disability, or survival. Ahead of Stroke Awareness Month in May, experts have outlined key guidelines on what to do—and what to avoid—in this stressful situation.
The FAST test (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) is a simple way to identify common stroke signs, says Emily Heard of the Stroke Association. Dr Naila Aslam, a GP at Central Health London, suggests asking the person to smile to check for facial asymmetry, and to raise their arms to see if one side is weaker. For speech, ask if they understand you; slurred answers mean call 999 immediately.
Call 999 as soon as you see any FAST sign—do not wait for all three. “Time is brain,” Heard warns, as up to two million brain cells die per minute without treatment. Stay calm, note when symptoms started, and tell the paramedic; this helps decide treatments like thrombolysis, which must be given within four and a half hours.
Stay with the patient, keep them upright with their head elevated, and monitor their condition. Do not give them food, drink, or any medication—especially aspirin—before paramedics arrive, as swallowing difficulties can cause choking. Even if symptoms disappear, seek urgent assessment; do not drive the patient yourself, as they may deteriorate and need professional support.
For more information on stroke risk reduction and spotting signs, visit stroke.org.uk or call the Stroke Support helpline on 0303 3033 100.
