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What to Do if Someone is Having a Stroke?

Ramin Ansari MD
Medically reviewed by Ramin Ansari
Ramin Ansari MD
Medically reviewed by Ramin Ansari

In moments of a medical emergency, it can be challenging to know precisely what action to take. When someone has a stroke, response time is critical.

Stroke is one of the most life-threatening problems. It requires careful, yet reasonably quick, treatment. Getting immediate medical attention is of the utmost importance.

But, the first signs of a stroke can be challenging to recognize. It means that if you know the symptoms of a stroke, you have already succeeded. It is the key to saving a person’s life quickly before more severe damage occurs. 

This blog will cover how to identify a person who may be having a stroke. We’ll tell you what steps you should take if someone in your community is experiencing possible signs and symptoms so you can ensure their safety and well-being in an uncertain situation.

stroke first aid

What to Do in a Stroke Situation

Do you suspect that someone is suffering from a stroke? If so, the best action is to get immediate medical attention. Don’t wait for symptoms to improve or disappear. 

Yes, it may seem to you that the person is getting better. But, unfortunately, that is not the case. The disappearance of symptoms means that irreversible damage has already been done. In such a case, helping the person is even more complex and, in some cases, even impossible.

Here are some tips on how to treat a stroke victim:

 

1. Call 911 Immediately

It is crucial to call 911 immediately if someone shows symptoms of a stroke. It is the first and most vital step. This call will help make it easier to deal with a stroke.

Alas, too often, the time it takes for a person to seek help from a medical professional is longer than necessary. It makes his recovery much more complex and time-consuming. 

Don’t hesitate if you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or another person – call 911 without delay! A quick reaction in these cases can be life-saving and crucial. It is because time can be critical in minimizing the damage of a stroke.

 

2. Do Keep Track of Symptoms

Paying attention to your symptoms is critical. This way, you can help someone have a stroke or are at risk of one. You need to pay attention to signs such as:

  • Confusion.
  • Slurred speech.
  • Deterioration of vision. If the person complains, they cannot see anything or see poorly.
  • Sudden numbness.
  • Balance problems. 

Tracking the frequency and intensity of these symptoms can help doctors. When they arrive after a 911 call, they will respond faster.

 

Besides tracking physical symptoms, documenting any changes can be helpful. For example, you can record changes such as:

  • Remembering.
  • Focus.
  • Concentration.

It will deal with stroke management and create a better outcome for the person suffering from a stroke.

 

3. Talk to the Person Experiencing a Stroke

The best way to reassure a person who has had a stroke is to talk to them. It may be difficult for the patient to understand what you are saying. But in this case, it doesn’t matter at all. It will help him stay calm and relaxed until the arrival of medical personnel. 

Of course, remember that your main goal is to keep the person who has had a stroke safe. Remember that your conversation will not help stabilize the situation. You need to wait for the arrival of the paramedics anyway. But talking will help alleviate the person suffering from a stroke. Every second counts, so it’s not time to panic!

 

4. Perform CPR if Necessary

CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is an emergency care technique. It is done by compressing the chest and breathing to keep a person alive when there is no heartbeat. What to do if a person has had a stroke and has no heartbeat? Artificial respiration! If it is necessary, don’t hesitate to do it. This way, you can help the person suffering a stroke even before medical help arrives.

It will be helpful if you know how to do CPR. Or if you have taken a course in this subject. But don’t worry, even if you don’t know how to perform CPR. Calling 911 will help you! Follow the 911 operators’ instructions, and you can save a life!

 

5. Keep Calm

Staying calm is extremely important in a stroke situation. When it comes to helping someone, the best thing you can do is act responsibly. It would be best if you stayed calm. It will help reduce the patient’s stress in the first place! And, of course, it will make it easier to manage the situation until medical personnel arrives.

Remember that time is critical to cut the damage caused by a stroke. Thus, take all necessary steps. You can ensure that the person receives proper medical care as soon as possible! 

stroke in adults

What Not to Do if Someone Has a Stroke

When someone has a stroke, it is important to take the right steps. This is the only way you can help the person and make sure they get the medical care they need. Knowing what not to do in such a situation is just as important. 

It is important to remember that not all attempts to help in a stroke situation are helpful. There are several things you should not do if someone suffers a stroke:

 

1. Don’t Give the Person Anything to Eat or Drink

It is important to remember what to do in a stroke situation. And one of the rules is not to give the person with a stroke anything to eat or drink. It is because it can affect the digestive system. Thus, it is necessary to follow the doctors’ instructions. 

Moreover, swallowing can be particularly difficult for a person with a stroke. So, you should wait until medical professionals have examined him. Only after that can you offer him food

Because of their weakened and possibly disturbed state, they may be more prone to choking incidents, so trying different foods to find the easiest ones for them should also be under the sensitive guidance of medical personnel.

Thus, do not give the person with a stroke anything to eat or drink.

 

2. Don’t Give any Medication to a Stroke Person

It is crucial to avoid giving a stroke patient any medicine. Of course, some people think medication will improve the suffering from a stroke. But this is a common mistake. Should I take aspirin for a stroke? No! Should I take any other medicines for stroke? No!

First of all, wait for a specialist! Only a doctor can tell you if it is okay to give the patient medicine. And they can tell you what treatment a person needs.

 

3. Don’t Let that Person Go to Sleep

When a person experiences a stroke, they feel sluggish or tired and want to sleep. But it is important not to let him fall asleep right away. Even though rest may seem like the best option, allowing the person to fall asleep can cause severe and irreversible physical health problems. 

Talk to the person, and ask them questions. That way, you can keep the person awake until medical help arrives.

 

4. Don’t Drive to the Hospital

When it comes to strokes, every second counts. It’s vital to act quickly to increase the chances of survival. It is also crucial to cut long-term damage. 

It is why ambulance services exist. Taking a patient to the hospital by ambulance makes the most efficient use of time. It ensures that the patient is transported safely to get the necessary medical care. 

It is highly discouraged to drive someone who is having a stroke. There are cumulative risks associated with operating in an emergency. It can worsen the situation. Wait for medical help and leave the driving to them!

 

5. Don’t Move the Person if Unnecessary

Finally, do not move a person suffering from a stroke unless necessary. Shifting may cause extra harm and make the situation worse. Wait for medical help to arrive before deciding to move the person.

It’s best to leave them in the position you found them in until medical help arrives. Keeping the person still is essential for their comfort and safety. It also helps reduce further damage caused by a stroke. 

 

Bottom Line

If you find yourself in a stroke situation, remember these helpful tips! Stay calm, act responsibly, and get immediate medical attention as soon as possible. These steps will cut or even stop your stroke suffering altogether!

Lone Star Neurology has the expertise and experience to diagnose, manage and treat stroke victims. Our experienced neurologists are here to help you get back on your feet and return to a healthy life. Contact us for more information about dealing with strokes.

Regardless of the situation, remember that time is of the essence in stroke care. Don’t wait to get help; follow the tips above to ensure a speedy recovery for the suffering person. With early treatment, stroke victims can recover and lead fulfilling lives. Contact us today for more information!

 

FAQs 

  • Do you take aspirin for a stroke?

No! You should not give any medicine to a person who has had a stroke. You should consult a healthcare provider.

  • How to treat a stroke victim?

The best way to treat a stroke victim is to call for medical help immediately. You can also give first aid until help arrives. It is also important not to move or let the person sleep until the doctor comes. 

  • What are the four silent signs of a stroke?

The four silent signs of a stroke include:

  • sudden confusion of consciousness;
  • difficulty understanding speech;
  • sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg;
  • difficulty seeing with one or both eyes. 

If these symptoms occur, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. 

  • What caused a stroke?

A stroke can be caused by an artery blockage that causes the brain not to get enough oxygen and nutrients. Or an artery rupture that causes the brain to bleed. Other possible causes of stroke include diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking. 

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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