When is GP consultation recommended for stroke?

Stroke symptoms can begin suddenly and may include a drooping face, weakness or numbness on one side, difficulty speaking or understanding, sudden loss of vision, severe dizziness, loss of balance or a sudden severe headache. Do not drive yourself to hospital. Note the time the person was last known to be well, because this helps the emergency team plan assessment and treatment. Symptoms that disappear can still represent a transient event and need urgent evaluation.

Call emergency services, describe the symptoms and follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Keep the person safe and supported, loosen tight clothing and avoid giving food, drink or medicines unless instructed. Do not wait to see whether the symptoms settle. A GP may help with prevention and recovery planning after hospital assessment, but a routine appointment is not the correct first step for new neurological symptoms.

Seek emergency help immediately for any sudden face, arm or speech change, new one-sided weakness, sudden visual loss, severe imbalance or an abrupt unusual headache. Make the call even when there is only one symptom or the person appears better, because early assessment can affect urgent decisions.

After urgent care, ask which type of stroke or transient event was suspected, which medicines and rehabilitation are advised, how to control blood pressure and other risks, and which new symptoms require another emergency call.