Fast ways to recognize a drug overdose or stroke

When a person is suffering from a drug overdose or stroke, it's important to act quickly. Here's how to respond while you wait for help to arrive.

Any drug — legal, illegal, prescribed, or over-the-counter — can cause adverse reactions, even at the stated dose. Even a common drug like acetaminophen can lead to jaundice and liver damage. Here's what to keep in mind if you suspect a drug overdose:

• Acute symptoms can range from drowsiness, shallow breathing, racing pulse, abdominal pain, vomiting, profuse sweating, dilated pupils, hallucinations, paranoia, irrational behaviour, disorientation, tremors, tinnitus and seizures, loss of consciousness, and heart failure.
• Make the patient comfortable by lying them on their side to guard against choking.
• Ask them what they have taken, when, and how much. Ask others who may know, and look for bottles, packaging or other evidence. If you find a hypodermic needle, don't touch it.
• Call an ambulance and tell the operator all that you can. Note any changes in the victim while you wait, and frequently check their breathing, pulse, and level of consciousness.
• If the patient falls unconscious, check their breathing and be ready to give CPR. If they are breathing, place them in the recovery position.
• Don't attempt to induce vomiting, but if the victim does vomit it can be a good idea to try and preserve it for analysis.

A stroke happens when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the brain, or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. The onset of symptoms is sudden and sometimes dramatic, and strokes aren't limited to the elderly. A stroke causes numbness, weakness, or paralysis on one side of the body. The victim's speech may be slurred, and they may experience blurred vision or loss of sight, unsteadiness, confusion, or complete unconsciousness.

• If you suspect a stroke use the F.A.S.T. test, and use it fast.
• FACE. Look at the face. Do you notice any weakness? Ask the victim to smile. A one-sided smile, while the other side of the face droops, suggests stroke.
• ARMS. Ask the victim to lift each arm in turn. If they cannot lift one of them, this is further evidence of stroke.
• SPEAK. Ask the victim to speak. If they have suffered a stroke they may not properly understand you or may be unable to respond.
• TIME. Act fast, and if the victim fails any of these tests, call an ambulance. Offer reassurance and make a note of their levels of consciousness. Prepare to give CPR.
• Risk factors for a stroke include smoking, high blood pressure or heart disease, being overweight, raised cholesterol, diabetes, and excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption.

Strokes and drug overdoses are both very alarming, but try not to panic. With fast reactions and prompt medical attention, the victim can often make a full recovery.