If you suspect that you are having a stroke or that someone else is having a stroke, call an ambulance immediately. The sooner a stroke is treated in hospital, the more likely the person is to recover. Time delays can increase the damage to the brain.
Step One
Ask the person their name. If someone has had a stroke, they may not be able to talk, so grasp both their hands and ask them to squeeze — they may respond by squeezing one of your hands. Does the person respond? If so, they are conscious: follow the directions at the end of the page while you wait for help to arrive. If the person does not respond, they are probably unconscious.
Step Two
Phone for an ambulance or ask someone else to make the phone call.
Step Three
Is the airway open? Open the mouth and check that the upper airway that is visible to you is clear of foreign material.
Step Four
Is the airway open? Open the mouth and check that the upper airway that is visible to you is clear of foreign material.
Step Five
Lie the person down with their head and shoulders raised and supported (use pillows or cushions); keep them at a comfortable temperature.
Step Six
Loosen any tight clothing. Wipe away any secretions from the mouth. Make sure the airway is clear and open.
Step Seven
Assure the person that help is on the way (they may be able to communicate by squeezing your hands if they can’t speak) and; Do not give them anything to eat or drink.
Step Eight
If the affected person becomes unconscious, put them in the recovery position as described above to prevent anything (blood, saliva, or their tongue) from blocking the windpipe and choking them. Continue to monitor their airway and breathing.
Step Nine
Even if the symptoms are short-lived — a ‘mini-stroke’ or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) — call an ambulance and ensure the person seeks immediate medical help, as these symptoms can be a warning sign of a future stroke.