When a stroke strikes, every second matters. The actions you take—or don’t take—during those critical moments can significantly impact recovery or even survival. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing exactly what to do (or avoid) can save lives.
6 Things You Should Do When Having a Stroke
1. Call Emergency Services Immediately
The first and most critical step is to call emergency services right away. If you’re in the U.S., dial 911, or use the emergency number specific to your country. Time is of the essence because strokes can cause irreversible damage to the brain. The faster medical professionals intervene, the better the chances of recovery.
Symptoms like sudden weakness, slurred speech, facial drooping, or numbness on one side of the body are red flags. Don’t hesitate—pick up the phone and call for help immediately.
2. Note the Time Symptoms Started
Timing is everything when it comes to stroke treatment. One of the most effective stroke interventions is a medication called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which works best when administered within 3-4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms. If possible, note when the symptoms began and share this information with medical professionals.
Think of it like a detective clue—it helps doctors determine the best course of treatment.
3. Stay Calm and Keep Still
Panicking or moving around excessively can exacerbate symptoms. While it’s easier said than done, staying calm is crucial. Sit or lie down and try to remain as still as possible while waiting for emergency help to arrive.
Think of your body like a delicate system under stress—keeping it stable minimizes potential damage.
4. Sit or Lie Down in a Safe Position
If standing becomes too difficult, sit or lie down on your side with your head slightly elevated. This reduces the risk of falling and injuring yourself further. Lying flat on your back isn’t ideal, as it may worsen symptoms for some stroke patients. Elevating the head slightly can improve blood flow and help with breathing.
It’s a simple adjustment, but it can make a big difference in ensuring safety.
5. Avoid Eating or Drinking
When experiencing a stroke, the muscles responsible for swallowing may be impaired. Eating or drinking could lead to choking or aspiration, which might worsen the situation. Even if you feel hungry or thirsty, resist the urge to consume anything until medical personnel give you the go-ahead.
Picture it like a blocked drain—adding more water (or food) could create a bigger problem.
6. Be Ready to Provide Information to Medical Personnel
When paramedics arrive, they’ll need critical details to provide proper care. Be prepared to share:
- When the symptoms began
- Any medical history, including previous strokes or health conditions
- Medications you’re currently taking
Having this information ready ensures that medical professionals can make informed and timely decisions. If you can’t speak clearly, try to have a written note or a family member relay the details.
3 Things You Shouldn’t Do When Having a Stroke
1. Do Not Delay Seeking Help
Delaying treatment can lead to devastating consequences. Every second a stroke goes untreated, brain cells are dying. Don’t wait to see if the symptoms subside or try to “tough it out.” A stroke is a medical emergency, and immediate action is critical.
Think of it this way: would you ignore a fire alarm in your home? Of course not—you’d call for help immediately. Treat stroke symptoms with the same urgency.
2. Do Not Drive Yourself to the Hospital
It may be tempting to hop in your car and head to the nearest hospital, but this is incredibly dangerous. Stroke symptoms like dizziness, vision problems, and weakness can impair your ability to drive safely, putting you and others at risk. Always call for an ambulance or have someone else take you to the hospital.
Driving during a stroke is like driving blindfolded—it’s not worth the risk.
3. Do Not Take Medication Without Doctor Approval
Self-medicating during a stroke can do more harm than good. For example, while aspirin can help in some cases, it’s not suitable for all types of strokes. Hemorrhagic strokes (caused by bleeding in the brain) can worsen with aspirin, making the situation even more dangerous. Leave medication decisions to the professionals.
Think of medications as tools—they’re only effective when used correctly, and only doctors have the blueprint.
How to Recognize a Stroke Quickly
One of the best ways to identify a stroke is by using the acronym F.A.S.T.:
- F: Face drooping—Does one side of the face droop or feel numb?
- A: Arm weakness—Is one arm weak or numb? Can the person lift both arms evenly?
- S: Speech difficulty—Is speech slurred or hard to understand?
- T: Time to call emergency services—If you notice any of these signs, act fast and call for help immediately.
This simple tool can be a lifesaver in identifying strokes early and ensuring timely treatment.
Why Acting Quickly Can Save Lives
When it comes to strokes, time truly is brain. Each minute that passes without treatment results in the loss of millions of brain cells. Quick action can reduce the severity of the stroke, improve recovery outcomes, and, in some cases, prevent long-term disability.
By knowing what to do—and what to avoid—you’re not just helping yourself; you’re potentially saving your life or the life of someone you love.
Conclusion: Empower Yourself with Knowledge
Understanding the dos and don’ts of stroke response empowers you to act decisively in a crisis. Whether it’s calling emergency services, noting the time symptoms started, or staying calm and still, these small actions can make a huge difference. Equally important is avoiding mistakes like delaying help, driving yourself, or taking unapproved medication.
So, keep this information at the forefront of your mind. Share it with your loved ones, discuss it with friends, and ensure everyone around you knows how to respond to a stroke. Because when every second counts, knowledge is the most powerful tool you can have. Stay informed, stay prepared, and take care!
