What to do
- Sudden drooping face, weak arm or unusual speech: emergency help now, even if it passes. Sudden vision or balance loss also needs urgent assessment.
- Ask someone to call if unable to speak. Stay comfortable with someone nearby. Do not drive.
- Note when the signs started and tell responders. Do not delay calling to find out.
- If found on waking or onset is unknown, report last time known well and when you noticed it. Say if unknown. Do not guess.
What to avoid
- No food or drink: swallowing may be difficult.
- Do not wait to see whether it passes. Improvement does not rule out stroke.
- Do not take or give aspirin for suspected stroke unless medically instructed. Do not change usual treatment because of this guide.
2026-10-03-draft-48

