Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and severe long-term disability if not treated promptly. Early recognition of the signs and proper first aid can be the deciding factor in saving the patient's life.

How Dangerous Is Stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients for brain cells. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic stroke (usually caused by a blood clot blocking a blood vessel) and hemorrhagic stroke (caused by a blood vessel rupturing and bleeding into the brain).

In some cases, patients may experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA)—a mild stroke with temporary symptoms that usually disappear within a few minutes to 24 hours. However, TIA is a warning sign of the potential for a more serious stroke in the near future.

If not treated immediately, a stroke can lead to death or result in severe long-term consequences such as paralysis on one side of the body, speech disorders, memory loss, or a vegetative state. According to statistics, 90% of stroke survivors suffer severe consequences that significantly affect their quality of life and ability to work.

How to Recognize a Stroke

A stroke can happen suddenly while the person is going about their normal activities. The typical symptoms include:

• Paralysis or weakness on one side of the body

• Facial drooping, slurred speech, or difficulty speaking

• Loss of balance, dizziness

• Severe headache, sudden onset

• Loss of spatial awareness or orientation

• Difficulty swallowing, altered consciousness

A simple and effective way to detect the signs of a stroke is to use the FAST rule:

• F – Face: Check if the face is drooping, particularly around the mouth or eyes.

• A – Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. See if one arm drifts downward.

• S – Speech: Check if the person has slurred speech or difficulty speaking.

• T – Time: If any of these signs appear, call emergency services immediately.

Even if the symptoms last only a few minutes, the person should be taken to the hospital urgently, as this could be a TIA—an indication that a serious stroke might occur soon.

First Aid for Stroke at Home

When you suspect someone may be having a stroke, it’s crucial to stay calm and follow these steps:

Step 1: Call for Emergency Help Immediately
Contact emergency services (115 or the local emergency number) and provide clear information about the patient's condition.

Step 2: Position the Patient Safely
Place the person on their side with their head slightly elevated. This position helps prevent choking if they vomit.

Loosen clothing, remove accessories like ties or scarves to help the person breathe easier.

If the patient is a child, place them on their left side to prevent suffocation.

Step 3: Check Breathing and Circulation
If the person stops breathing, perform artificial respiration or chest compressions if the heart stops.

Use a clean cloth or protected hands to remove any mucus or saliva from the patient's mouth if necessary.

Remove dentures to avoid choking.

Step 4: Keep the Patient Warm and Calm
Cover the patient with a blanket to keep them warm while waiting for emergency services.

Avoid moving the person unless necessary or if there is an immediate threat to their life.

Step 5: Note the Symptoms and Time of Onset
Record the time when symptoms first appeared.

Provide information about whether the person had a fall, head injury, or any medical history to the healthcare professionals.

Mistakes to Avoid When Performing Stroke First Aid

Improper first aid can worsen the patient’s condition. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Do not let the patient lie on their back as it could block their airway if they vomit or cause their tongue to fall back when unconscious.

• Do not give the patient food, water, or medication as this could cause choking if they are unable to swallow properly.

• Do not prick the fingers or toes with a needle; this is not a medically recognized treatment and could cause harm.

• Do not try traditional remedies like cupping, as it wastes valuable time for emergency treatment.

• Do not hesitate; take the patient to a medical facility as quickly as possible.

Important Note

Time is crucial in treating a stroke. The "golden hour" within the first 3-6 hours can determine the patient’s survival and recovery. Therefore, when a stroke is suspected, performing proper first aid and calling for emergency help immediately are the most important steps to protect the life and health of your loved ones.