The faster a person reaches appropriate medical care, the greater the chance of limiting brain damage.
## Do Not Wait to See If Symptoms Improve
One of the most dangerous mistakes is waiting at home to see whether symptoms disappear.
If someone suddenly develops stroke-like symptoms:
* do not let them drive themselves
* do not wait for symptoms to worsen
* do not assume they simply need rest
* do not give food or drink if swallowing may be affected
Contact emergency medical services immediately.
## Who Is More Likely to Have a Stroke?
Stroke can happen to anyone, but some factors increase the risk.
These include:
