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How to Recognise and Respond to a Stroke

A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate action.  Every minute counts.  The faster a stroke is recognised and treated, the greater the chance of survival and recovery.  Despite this, many people are still unsure what a stroke looks like or what to do if they suspect one.


Understanding the warning signs and knowing how to respond can save a life and reduce the risk of long term disability.  One of the most effective ways to remember the signs of stroke is the BFAST system.




What is a stroke?


A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly interrupted.  This can happen because a blood vessel becomes blocked or because a blood vessel bursts.  Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die very quickly.


Strokes can affect people of any age, although risk increases with age and certain medical conditions.  Prompt treatment is critical, and early recognition by members of the public often makes the biggest difference.




Using BFAST to recognise a stroke


BFAST is an easy to remember system that highlights the key signs of stroke.  If you notice any one of these signs, you should act immediately.



B is for Balance changes


Sudden loss of balance, coordination or dizziness can be an early sign of a stroke.  The person may appear unsteady on their feet, struggle to walk in a straight line, or suddenly feel dizzy without an obvious cause.


Balance changes are sometimes overlooked, but they can be an important early warning sign, particularly when they appear suddenly.




F is for Face drooping


Ask the person to smile.  One side of the face may droop or feel numb.  The smile may look uneven or one side of the mouth may not move properly.


Facial weakness is one of the most commonly recognised signs of stroke and should always be taken seriously.




A is for Arm weakness


Ask the person to raise both arms and keep them raised.  One arm may drift downward, feel weak, or be completely unable to move.


Arm weakness may also affect the leg on the same side of the body and can appear suddenly.




S is for Speech difficulty


Speech may become slurred, slow or difficult to understand.  The person may struggle to find the right words or speak clearly.  They may also have difficulty understanding what is being said to them.


Even subtle changes in speech can indicate a stroke.




T is for Time to call 999


If you notice any of the signs above, it is time to call 999 immediately.  Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.  Do not attempt to drive the person to hospital unless advised by emergency services.


Early treatment significantly improves outcomes, and emergency services need to know as soon as possible.




What to do if you suspect a stroke


If you think someone is having a stroke:


  • Call 999 immediately and state that you suspect a stroke

  • Stay with the person and keep them calm

  • Help them sit or lie comfortably with their head slightly raised

  • Do not give them food, drink or medication

  • Monitor their breathing and level of response until help arrives



If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, be prepared to start CPR until emergency services take over.




What about mini strokes or TIAs?


You may hear people refer to a mini stroke.  The medical term is a transient ischaemic attack, often shortened to TIA.


A TIA happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is temporarily reduced.  The symptoms are similar to a stroke but may last only a few minutes or a short period of time before improving.


This can be misleading.  Just because symptoms appear to resolve does not mean the situation is safe.


A TIA is a serious warning sign and indicates a high risk of a full stroke in the near future, sometimes within days or even hours.  Anyone who experiences stroke like symptoms, even if they improve, must still be assessed urgently by medical professionals.


The key message is simple.  A TIA should be treated in exactly the same way as a stroke.  Use the BFAST system, call 999 immediately, and do not wait to see if symptoms pass.




Why acting quickly matters


Stroke treatments are time critical.  Some treatments are only effective if given within a short window after symptoms begin.  Delays can lead to more extensive brain damage, increased disability and a higher risk of death.


Quick recognition by a bystander and a fast call to emergency services can dramatically change the outcome.




Stroke awareness in the workplace


Strokes and TIAs do not only happen at home.  They can occur at work, in public places or during everyday activities.  In workplace settings, early recognition by colleagues can significantly improve outcomes.


First Aid at Work training helps staff recognise the signs of stroke quickly, respond appropriately, and support the casualty until emergency services arrive.  It also builds confidence to act without hesitation during stressful situations.


Stroke awareness forms an important part of creating safer workplaces and supporting employee wellbeing.




Final thoughts


A stroke is a life threatening medical emergency.  Recognising the signs quickly and responding without delay can save a life and reduce long term impact.


Remember BFAST.  Balance changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty and Time to call 999.


If you would like to learn more about stroke recognition and emergency response as part of a First Aid at Work or other first aid course, DTMK Training Services delivers practical, professional training across Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas.


You can visit https://training.dtmk.co.uk, call 01908 112111, or email enquiries@dtmk.co.uk to find out more.


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