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What to do if…
you notice new slurred speech or difficulty getting words out

Produced and maintained by PanicStation.org Published: Last reviewed: Editorial policy UK guide

Short answer

Call 999 now and say there is new slurred speech or trouble getting words out — possible stroke. Do not drive yourself to A&E.

Do not do these things

  • Do not wait to see if it passes, even if it seems mild or comes and goes.
  • Do not drive yourself to A&E or ask someone to take you instead of calling 999.
  • Do not eat or drink unless the 999 call handler or paramedics say it is safe.
  • Do not self-start aspirin, take extra doses, or take “just in case” medicines while waiting for emergency advice.
  • Do not go to sleep to see if it improves.
  • Do not keep working, walking around, or trying to push through the speech problem.

What to do now

  1. Dial 999 immediately.
    • Say: “New slurred speech or trouble getting words out — possible stroke.”
    • If speaking is difficult, put the phone on speaker, stay on the line, and make any sound or tap if you can.
  2. Note the time symptoms started.
    • If you are not sure, use the last time you were definitely speaking normally.
    • Tell the 999 call handler and paramedics this time.
  3. Use FAST while help is coming, but do not delay the call to check.
    • Face: one side drooping, uneven smile, or new face weakness.
    • Arms: one arm weak, numb, or drifting down.
    • Speech: slurred, garbled, confused, or unable to get words out.
    • Time: call 999 immediately if any one of these is present.
  4. Make it easier for paramedics to reach you.
    • Unlock the door if safe.
    • Move pets away from the entrance.
    • Turn on a light if it helps people find you.
    • Keep your phone nearby.
  5. Reduce the chance of a fall or choking.
    • Sit down and avoid walking around.
    • If you feel very faint, very drowsy, or you vomit, lie on your side if you can do so safely.
  6. Prepare only the essentials if it does not delay help.
    • Write down the symptom start time or last known well time.
    • Add your address, allergies, and key medicines, especially blood thinners or anticoagulants.
    • Put medicine boxes nearby if they are easy to reach.
  7. If the speech problem stops, still treat it as urgent.
    • Stroke-like symptoms that go away can still need immediate assessment.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide whether this is a stroke, a TIA, a “mini-stroke”, anxiety, migraine, or something else.
  • You do not need to call your GP, NHS 111, a pharmacy, or a routine clinic first.
  • You do not need a full medical history now; the symptom time and key medicines are enough.
  • You do not need to contact work, cancel plans, or explain everything to other people before calling 999.

Important reassurance

Sudden trouble speaking can feel frightening and unreal. Calling 999 is the right action even if you are not sure, because emergency teams are used to assessing stroke-like symptoms quickly and calmly.

Scope note

These are first steps only: get urgent help, reduce delay, and avoid common harmful actions. Later tests, treatment, and decisions need clinicians once you are safe.

Important note

This is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. If you suspect a stroke or sudden neurological symptoms, treat it as an emergency and call 999.

Additional Resources

Closely connected guides that may be useful during the same situation or its immediate aftermath.

About this guide

This guide was produced and is maintained by PanicStation.org using its published editorial process. Official and specialist sources are checked where relevant, and AI-assisted tools may be used for drafting, organisation, and consistency checks. The site operator remains responsible for publication, revision, and removal decisions.

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