Recognising a Stroke: What to Do in the First Minutes

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Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, is raising awareness this World Stroke Day, October 29, about the importance of recognising the signs of a stroke and acting fast.

Strokes are one of the most significant health threats we face—not just globally, but also right here in South Africa. Worldwide, the World Health Organization ranks stroke as the second leading cause of death. Closer to home, strokes are among the top five causes of death and a significant reason why so many people live with long-term disability. Every year, thousands of families are affected, often suddenly and without warning. The good news is that with prompt medical treatment, many lives can be saved and lasting damage can be reduced.

“Stroke can happen to anyone, at any age. Knowing the warning signs and acting immediately gives patients the best chance of survival and recovery,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.

Why Every Second Counts

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or severely reduced. This can happen when a blood vessel is obstructed by a clot (ischaemic stroke) or when a vessel bursts and causes bleeding into the brain (haemorrhagic stroke). Both events stop brain cells from receiving oxygen and nutrients, and within minutes, irreversible brain damage can begin.

The phrase “time is brain” is often used by neurologists because every passing second results in the loss of millions of brain cells. The faster a stroke is recognised and treated, the greater the chance of limiting disability and saving a life.

The FAST Test

Health organisations widely promote the FAST test to help people spot the early signs of a stroke.

F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side droop?
A – Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
S – Speech: Is their speech slurred, strange, or hard to understand?
T – Time: If any of these signs are present, call emergency services immediately, or use the iER app for fast emergency response.

What to Do Immediately

If you suspect someone is having a stroke:

Note the time the symptoms began. This helps doctors decide on the safest and most effective treatment.
Keep the person safe and comfortable. If they are conscious, position them on their side with their head slightly raised.
Do not give food, drink, or medicine. A stroke can impair swallowing and increase the risk of choking.
Stay calm and reassuring. Your composure helps both you and the person in crisis.
Call emergency services immediately. Do not wait to see if symptoms disappear.

Symptoms Beyond F.A.S.T

The FAST test identifies the most common signs of a stroke, but there are other symptoms to be aware of. A person may suddenly feel confused or struggle to understand speech. Vision may become blurry or be lost in one or both eyes. They might feel dizzy, lose balance, or become unsteady on their feet. Numbness or weakness can appear in the face, arm, or leg—usually on one side of the body. Some people experience a sudden, severe headache with no apparent cause. Even if these symptoms disappear after a few minutes, it could be a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke.

Reducing Your Risk of Stroke

Not every stroke can be prevented, but the way you live and care for your health can make a significant difference. Here are some simple steps to lower your risk:

Keep your blood pressure under control, as high blood pressure is the most significant cause of strokes.
Conditions such as high cholesterol and diabetes put extra strain on your blood vessels.
Exercise improves blood flow, keeps your heart strong, and helps control weight. Even a daily walk can help.
Carrying too much weight increases stroke risk, while keeping to a healthy weight protects your heart and blood vessels.
Smoking damages blood vessels and makes you twice as likely to have a stroke.
Heavy drinking raises blood pressure and increases stroke risk. If you drink, do so in moderation.
Conditions such as an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation) or heart disease require proper treatment, as they can lead to clots that cause strokes.

Final Thoughts

World Stroke Day is a powerful reminder that a stroke can happen to anyone, at any time. Recognising the warning signs and acting immediately is the most effective way to save lives and reduce long-term disability. Affinity Health supports its members with proactive healthcare benefits that include 24/7 emergency medical response, trauma support services, private hospital care, and structured coverage for serious illnesses. These services ensure that members have access to urgent treatment when they need it most.

“Every second counts in a stroke,” concludes Murray Hewlett.

“By learning the signs, acting fast, and prioritising regular health checks, we can all take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Early action saves lives and helps survivors recover stronger.”