1) Stroke

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. It often occurs suddenly.

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Sudden severe headache
• Dizziness, loss of balance, or trouble walking
• Slurred speech or trouble speaking
• Drooling or facial droop
• Trouble understanding words
• Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
• Loss of consciousness

First Aid steps:

• Call 9-1-1 immediately.
• Note the time symptoms first began.
• Keep the person still and comfortable.
• If the person becomes unconscious and you do not suspect head/neck/back injury, place them in the recovery position and monitor breathing.

2) Seizure

A seizure is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can look like mild shaking or strong convulsions. Most seizures stop within a few minutes.

Possible causes include:

• Epilepsy
• Head injury
• Poisons
• Missed medications
• Low blood sugar

First Aid steps:

• Clear the area—remove nearby objects that could cause injury.
• Do not restrain the person.
• Do not put anything in their mouth.
• When the seizure stops, check breathing.
• If vomiting occurs and you do not suspect head/neck/back injury, place the person in the recovery position.
• Call 9-1-1 if the seizure lasts several minutes, repeats, the person is injured, pregnant, diabetic, or does not regain normal responsiveness.

3) Head and Spinal Injuries

Head and spinal injuries can affect movement, sensation, breathing, and alertness.

Possible causes include:

• Falls
• Sports injuries
• Assault
• Motor vehicle accidents (especially without a helmet)

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Trouble walking or talking
• Confusion or unusual sleepiness
• Fluid or blood coming from the nose or ears
• Numbness, weakness, tingling, or paralysis

First Aid steps:

• Call 9-1-1.
• Do not move the person unless the scene becomes unsafe.
• Keep the head, neck, and spine as still as possible.
• If the person vomits, protect the airway while minimizing head/neck movement.

If the Person Becomes Unresponsive

• Check breathing.
• Begin CPR (or Hands-Only CPR if you are not trained in rescue breaths