Many people ignore minor health issues, hoping they will go away. But sometimes, what seems small can be a serious warning. Sudden slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body may indicate a stroke, a condition that is becoming one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in India. Acting fast is critical because early treatment can save lives and reduce lasting damage.
We spoke to Dr Faisal Bari, Head of Emergency at Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad, who explained that recognising stroke symptoms early is crucial. “These signs should never be ignored,” he said.
A stroke happens when the blood supply to a part of the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts. Symptoms can vary depending on the part of the brain affected. Some common signs to watch for include:
Slurred, garbled, or unclear speech
Trouble understanding or forming words
Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body or face
Blurred or double vision
Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
Severe, sudden headaches
Confusion, agitation, or difficulty thinking clearly
Doctors recommend using the BE FAST method to remember stroke signs and act quickly:
B – Balance: sudden loss of balance or coordination
E – Eyes: sudden vision changes or loss of vision
F – Face: drooping of facial muscles on one side
A – Arms: weakness or numbness in one arm
S – Speech: slurred or difficult speech
T – Time: call emergency services immediately
Dr Bari emphasizes that even mild symptoms should be taken seriously. “A stroke can progress quickly. Waiting for symptoms to pass can cause permanent brain damage,” he explains.
Quick recognition and response can make a huge difference. Modern hospitals have hyperacute stroke units with advanced imaging like CT and MRI scans, which help doctors identify the type and location of the stroke. This allows treatment to begin immediately, improving the chances of recovery.
Treatment options include procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy, where blood clots are removed from the brain to restore blood flow. Other treatments may involve medications that dissolve clots or reduce brain swelling. The faster these interventions occur, the better the outcome for the patient.
Treatment does not end once the immediate threat is addressed. Recovery and rehabilitation are essential for regaining independence and quality of life. Key aspects of recovery include:
Physical therapy: helps patients regain strength, movement, and balance
Speech therapy: improves communication skills, including speech, language, and swallowing
Occupational therapy: teaches patients to perform daily tasks and regain independence
Emotional support: family, friends, and counselling help patients cope with changes in lifestyle and mental health
Dr Bari stresses that early intervention and strong rehabilitation support are vital. “Stroke patients who get quick treatment and consistent therapy are much more likely to recover fully or partially, while delays increase the risk of long-term disability,” he says.
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It is important to remember that sudden weakness or slurred speech is not just stress, fatigue, or something that will go away on its own. These can be urgent signals that a stroke is happening. Waiting or ignoring them can result in permanent brain injury or death.
Family members and caregivers play a critical role in recognising early signs and ensuring immediate medical attention. Awareness campaigns and regular check-ups are also important, especially for people at higher risk due to conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, or a family history of stroke.
In summary, strokes are medical emergencies that require fast action. Sudden slurred speech, one-sided weakness, and other warning signs should prompt immediate medical attention. Using the BE FAST method can help identify symptoms quickly, while modern treatments and rehabilitation programs can improve outcomes. Acting fast can mean the difference between full recovery, long-term disability, or death.
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