Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services immediately for possible stroke symptoms, including:
One side of the face drooping
New weakness or numbness in an arm or leg
Slurred, confused, or lost speech
Sudden loss of vision, severe imbalance, or unusual severe headache
Abrupt confusion or loss of awareness
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice for a noticeable worsening over hours or days, repeated falls, new swallowing problems, marked sleepiness, poor fluid intake, or sudden changes in behaviour.
These may have a treatable cause such as infection, dehydration, pain, or a medicine effect.
Even if these symptoms improve quickly, urgent assessment is still needed because they may represent a transient ischaemic attack or stroke.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you or someone close to you has noticed a gradual decline in memory, concentration, planning, communication, or ability to manage everyday tasks.
Assessment is also important after a stroke if thinking problems continue beyond the early recovery period.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Vascular dementia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.