A brain stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Without timely treatment, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Knowing what to do in the crucial first moments can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key steps of recognizing a stroke and offering immediate first aid until professional help arrives.

Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Stroke

Time is critical in treating a stroke. The faster you act, the better the chances of recovery. Learn to recognize the most common signs using the FAST method:

  • F – Face Drooping: One side of the face may appear uneven or droopy. Ask the person to smile.
  • A – Arm Weakness: One arm may be numb or weak. Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one drifts down.
  • S – Speech Difficulty: The person may slur words or have trouble speaking clearly.
  • T – Time to Call Emergency Services: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.

Other possible stroke symptoms include sudden numbness, confusion, dizziness, trouble seeing in one or both eyes, and severe headache with no known cause.

Immediate First Aid Steps

Here’s what you need to do if you suspect someone is having a stroke:

1. Call Emergency Services Immediately

Dial emergency services (such as 108 in India) without delay. Do not attempt to drive the person to the hospital unless you have no other option. Emergency responders are trained to provide essential care on the way.

2. Keep the Person Calm and Comfortable

Help them sit or lie down in a safe position. Loosen any tight clothing around the neck. Keep them as calm and relaxed as possible while you wait for help. Avoid giving them anything to eat or drink.

3. Note the Time of Onset

This is extremely important. The effectiveness of certain treatments (like clot-busting medication) depends on how soon they are given. Try to determine when the symptoms began or when the person was last seen without them.

4. Monitor Breathing and Consciousness

Keep a close watch on their breathing. If they stop breathing or lose consciousness, be prepared to perform CPR if you are trained. Do not leave them alone.

5. Position Them Safely

If the person is conscious, lay them on their side with the head slightly raised. If they are vomiting or drooling, this position can help prevent choking. However, don’t move them too much unless necessary.

6. Do Not Give Medication

Never attempt to give aspirin or any other medicine unless advised by a medical professional. Some strokes are caused by bleeding in the brain, and giving aspirin could make it worse.

7. Reassure and Talk to Them

Even if they are unable to respond clearly, speak calmly. Let them know that help is on the way. This reassurance can help reduce panic and anxiety, which could worsen the situation.

What Not to Do During a Stroke

  • Don’t ignore the symptoms or wait to see if they improve.
  • Don’t give food, water, or medications.
  • Don’t let them fall asleep.
  • Don’t attempt to diagnose the condition yourself.

After Emergency Help Arrives

Share as much information as possible with paramedics:

  • Time of symptom onset
  • Symptoms observed
  • Medical history if known (especially heart conditions or medications)
  • Any changes in consciousness or speech

Let the professionals take over care immediately. Once the patient reaches the hospital, they may undergo a CT scan or other diagnostic tests to determine the type of stroke and appropriate treatment.

The Golden Hour

Medical experts often refer to the first hour after stroke symptoms begin as the “golden hour.” Quick medical attention during this window significantly improves the chances of survival and reduces the risk of long-term disability. Don’t delay—every second counts.

Conclusion: Stroke Response Begins With Awareness

Stroke is a life-threatening emergency, but the right response can save lives. Being prepared and knowing how to respond can mean the difference between recovery and disability—or even life and death.

At Hannah Joseph Hospital, our Neuroscience Department is equipped with advanced facilities and a skilled medical team to handle stroke emergencies 24/7. If you or someone you love is at risk, don’t wait. Learn the signs, share this knowledge, and seek immediate help when needed.

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