When should you see a doctor about weakness on one side?

Weakness may affect an arm, leg, or the face, and may make walking, gripping, smiling, or speaking difficult. Sudden symptoms can occur with a stroke or transient ischaemic attack, even if they improve. Facial weakness limited to one side can have another cause, such as Bell's palsy, but new neurological symptoms still need prompt assessment. Do not try to diagnose the cause at home.

Note the exact time the person was last known well and when the weakness was first noticed. Call emergency services, keep the person safe and seated, and do not give food, drink, or medicines unless instructed. Do not drive them yourself if emergency transport is available. Gather their medicine list and identification while help is coming.

Emergency help is needed for weakness that starts suddenly or is accompanied by facial drooping, speech or understanding problems, new vision loss, severe headache, collapse, seizure, dizziness with inability to walk, or loss of coordination. Call even if the symptoms fade, because a transient episode can still require urgent evaluation.

Ask what tests were performed, what warning signs require a return to hospital, how medicines and risk factors should be reviewed, and what support is appropriate for movement, speech, or facial symptoms.