Stroke First Aid: Immediate Steps While Waiting for Emergency Services

If someone is having a stroke:

Call 911 immediately

The faster the person receives treatment, the better their chances of recovery.

While you wait for help:

1.Help the person get into a comfortable position

Gently lower the person to the floor or ground and position them on their side. This helps prevent the person from choking on their own fluids and helps blood flow to the brain.

2. Loosen tight clothing

Loosen any tight clothing around the person's neck, chest, and waist. This will help them breathe easier.

3. Monitor breathing

Make sure the person is breathing. If they are not breathing, start CPR.

4. Keep the person calm

Reassure the person and try to keep them calm. This can help lower their blood pressure and reduce the risk of further damage.

5. Do not give the person any food or water

This could worsen the stroke.

Additional things to do:

* If the person is taking any medications, make sure to bring them with you to the hospital.

* If the person has any allergies, make sure to tell the emergency medical personnel when they arrive.

* If the person has a history of stroke or heart disease, let the emergency medical personnel know this as well.