What to expect from a GP consultation for stroke

The GP will ask when symptoms began, whether they started suddenly, and what changed first. They may ask about facial movement, speech, vision, balance, strength, sensation, swallowing and alertness. Bring a list of medicines, including anticoagulants, and mention previous strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart rhythm problems or smoking.

The examination may include checking speech, facial symmetry, arm and leg strength, coordination, walking, sensation, blood pressure and pulse. A suspected stroke is an emergency; a GP may arrange immediate transfer rather than complete a routine clinic assessment. If symptoms have already settled, the consultation can still guide urgent assessment and prevention.

Write down the exact time the person was last known to be well, not only when someone noticed the change. Do not drive yourself if stroke symptoms are present. Keep medicine packaging or a current list nearby, and tell the clinician about recent bleeding, surgery or head injury. Follow instructions about hospital assessment, scans, medicines and follow-up.

Call emergency services immediately for sudden facial drooping, one-sided weakness or numbness, trouble speaking or understanding, sudden vision loss, severe dizziness, loss of balance or a severe unexplained headache. Do this even if the symptom improves. Do not wait for a routine GP appointment, because early assessment can affect urgent treatment decisions.

Ask whether emergency assessment is needed now, which warning signs should prompt another call, how medicines should be taken, and when blood pressure, heart rhythm or rehabilitation follow-up is due.