What To Do If Someone Is Having A Stroke

This article explains what to do if someone is having a stroke, why every second matters, and how to spot symptoms early using the FAST test. It outlines different types of strokes, key warning signs, essential first aid steps, and what not to do in an emergency.

 

Introduction

When someone is having a stroke, every second counts. Acting quickly can mean the difference between a full recovery, a long term disability, or even saving a life. 

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, and without fast, professional medical treatment, the brain cells begin to die. This is why it is so crucial to know the signs of a stroke, and what to do when you notice them. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to recognise symptoms of a stroke, what to do, and how to provide potentially life saving first aid. Whether you’re wanting to learn for a loved one, or on the off chance you’re a bystander in a moment of emergency, knowing how to respond can make all the difference.

 

What Is A Stroke?

A stroke happens when the blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly cut off. This can be caused by a blockage, like a clot, or a burst blood vessel. When the brain is cut off from its blood flow, the brain is starved of oxygen and nutrients, meaning that the brain cells begin to die within a matter of minutes. In fact, 1.9 million neurons die every minute that a stroke goes untreated. This can lead to serious, long term damage, or even be fatal. 

Types of Strokes:

• Ischaemic Stroke - the most common type of stroke, responsible for around 87% of strokes, caused by a blood clot blocking an artery.
• Haemorrhagic Stroke - caused by a blood vessel bursting and bleeding into the brain. Whilst this type of stroke is less common, it is often more fatal.  
• Transient Ischaemic Attack (Mini Stroke) - has similar symptoms to a stroke but the blockage is temporary. This attack is not something to ignore and still requires emergency medical attention.  

 

Signs And Symptoms Of A Stroke?

Recognising the signs of a stroke early can save a life. The quicker someone gets medical attention, the better their chances of recovery. The easiest way to remember the key symptoms of a stroke is through the FAST acronym.

• F - Face - Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face drop?
• A - Arms - Can they raise both of their arms and hold them there? Does one arm drift downwards?
• S - Speech - Is their speech slurred, muddled or difficult to understand?
• T - Time - If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call 999 immediately.

Other Symptoms of a Stroke:

• Sudden weakness or numbness in one side of the body
• Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
• Loss of balance, dizziness or difficulty walking
• Severe headache with no known cause.

Even if the symptoms seem to come and go, or only last a few minutes, it is vital to act fast. A stroke is always an emergency and needs to be treated by a medical professional.

 

What To Do If Someone Is Having a Stroke

If you think someone is having a stroke, act quickly. Your first priority should be getting emergency medical help as soon as possible, to give them the best chance of survival and recovery.

Here’s what to do:

• Call 999 Immediately - Don’t wait to see if the symptoms go away. Even if you’re unsure, it’s better to make the call. Call 999, ask for an ambulance and tell the operator that you think someone is having a stroke, so they can prioritise the response.
• Note The Time Symptoms Started - If you can, make a note of the exact time the symptoms began. This information helps doctors decide on the best treatment.
• Keep Them Safe and Comfortable - Help the person sit or lie down in a safe position. Support their head and shoulders, and make sure they’re not at the risk of falling.
• Stay Calm and Offer Reassurance - Strokes are frightening. Stay with the person, keep them calm and reassure them that help is on the way.
• Be Ready To Give CPR If They Become Unresponsive - If the person stops breathing, start CPR and follow the emergency operator’s instructions until help arrives.

What NOT To Do If Someone Is Having a Stroke

Knowing what not to do during a stroke is just as important as knowing what to do. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Don't Wait To See If Symptoms Improve - Time is critical. Even if the symptoms seem mild or go away, you still need to call 999 straight away.
• Don't Let Them Go To Sleep or 'Sleep It Off' - A stroke an cause drowsiness and confusion, but letting someone fall asleep could delay life saving treatment.
• Don't Give Them Food or Drink - A stroke can affect the ability to swallow, which could lead to choking. Wait for emergency services before giving anything by mouth.
• Don't Give Them Any Medication (Unless Told To By Emergency Services) - Even if they're on medication for conditions like high blood pressure, don't administer anything without medical guidance.
• Don't Panic or Leave Them Alone - Staying calm and reassuring the person can help keep them safe and reduce anxiety while you wait for help.

 

Why Acting Fast Matters

When it comes to a stroke, every second counts. The longer the brain is starved of oxygen, the more damage it causes. 

In some cases, doctors can use a clot-busting treatment called thrombolysis, but it's only effective if given within a narrow timeframe, usually within 4.5 hours of symptoms starting. This is why noting the time of onset and calling 999 immediately is so important.

Delay in treatment can lead to:

• Permanent brain damage
• Paralysis or loss of movement
• Difficult with speech or memory 
• Increased risk of complications or death 

The quicker someone gets medical attention, the more options they have for recovery. Recognising the signs and reacting fast could make the difference.

 

Follow Up and Stroke Recovery

Once emergency services arrive, the person will be taken to hospital for urgent assessment and treatment. Doctors may run scans to confirm the type of stroke and begin appropriate care, which might include clot-busting medication, surgery or rehabilitation planning.

Recovery from stroke varies from person to person. Some may recover quickly, while others need longer term support. Follow-up care often involves a combination of:

• Rehabilitation therapy - including physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and occupation therapy.
• Medication - to prevent future strokes, such as blood thinners or medications to control blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Lifestyle changes - like improving diet, quitting smoking, and increasing physical activity.
• Emotional support - strokes can have a big emotional impact. Many people benefit from counselling or support groups.

Friends, family and carers play a huge role in helping someone rebuild their independence after a stroke. Staying patient, encouraging progress, and celebrating small wins can make a big difference in recovery.

 

Be Prepared With Stroke First Aid

A stroke can happen suddenly and without warning, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. By recognising the signs early, acting fast, and staying calm, you could save a life or help someone avoid serious long term effects. 

The best way to be ready is to equip yourself with the right knowledge and training. At FRFA, we offer accredited first aid courses that teach you how to handle real life emergencies, including strokes, with confidence. Whether you’re a parent, colleague, or concerned bystander, being prepared means you won’t have to hesitate when every second counts.

Take the step now - book a first aid course today.

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