What Is First Aid for Stroke?

🧠 Why Stroke First Aid Matters

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel bursts and causes bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes.

Early action can mean the difference between recovery and permanent disability—or even death.

🚨 Recognize the Signs: Use the FAST Test

The easiest and most effective way to spot stroke symptoms is to remember the word F.A.S.T.

✅ F – Face Drooping

Ask the person to smile. Is one side of their face drooping?

✅ A – Arm Weakness

Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

✅ S – Speech Difficulty

Ask them to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange?

✅ T – Time to Call Emergency Services

If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.

⏱️ Don’t wait. Time lost = brain lost.

⛑️ What to Do While Waiting for Help

If you suspect someone is having a stroke:

1. Call Emergency Services Immediately

Do not drive them unless absolutely necessary. Paramedics can start treatment on the way to the hospital.

2. Keep Them Safe and Calm

• Help them lie down with their head slightly elevated.

• Loosen tight clothing.

• Reassure them that help is on the way.

3. Do NOT Give Them Food or Water

Swallowing may be impaired. Giving food or drink could lead to choking or aspiration.

4. Note the Time

Try to remember when symptoms began. This helps doctors determine eligibility for clot-busting medication like tPA, which must be given within a specific time window (usually 3–4.5 hours).

5. Monitor Consciousness and Breathing

If the person becomes unconscious:

• Check for breathing and pulse.

• If trained, begin CPR if they stop breathing.

❌ What NOT to Do

• Don’t let the person sleep it off.

• Don’t give aspirin unless told by medical personnel (could worsen bleeding in hemorrhagic stroke).

• Don’t delay. Even if symptoms disappear (like in a TIA), call for help.

🧠 After the Stroke: Start Rehab as Soon as Possible

Once the person is stabilized, rehabilitation is the next critical phase of recovery.

That’s where tools like ReHAND™ come in.

🖐️ ReHAND™: Helping Stroke Survivors Recover Hand Function

Many stroke survivors struggle with:

• Hand and finger stiffness

• Weakness or spasticity

• Difficulty performing daily tasks

ReHAND™ is a smart rehabilitation device designed to:

• Stimulate brain-hand connection through repetitive motion

• Support mirror therapy for neuroplasticity

• Allow home-based training in just 20-minute sessions

• Help reduce the risk of muscle atrophy and contractures

It’s safe, simple, and effective for mild to severe hand impairment after stroke.

👉 Shop ReHAND™ and support recovery today:

Visit www.re-hand.com