Stroke urgency: Early treatment can prevent paralysis
Every minute matters in stroke: Early treatment can reverse paralysis
Every minute counts during a stroke. A stroke happens suddenly when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This prevents brain cells from getting oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to permanent damage or paralysis. Experts emphasize that early treatment can save lives, restore brain function, and sometimes even reverse paralysis. Understanding the warning signs and acting quickly is crucial.
What is a stroke and its warning signs
A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. There are different types of strokes, but the most common is an ischemic stroke, caused by a clot blocking blood flow in the brain. The first few hours after a stroke are critical. Doctors call this the "golden window" of 4.5 hours. If treatment is given within this period, the chances of recovery are much higher, and permanent damage may be avoided.
Recognizing the early warning signs of a stroke is key to saving lives. Some common signs include:
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Face drooping – one side of the face may sag.
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Arm weakness – difficulty lifting one arm or holding objects.
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Speech difficulty – slurred speech or trouble speaking clearly.
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Balance loss – sudden dizziness or trouble walking.
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Vision changes – blurred or double vision.
Experts advise anyone noticing these symptoms to seek medical help immediately. Even small signs should not be ignored, as timely action can prevent severe complications.
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Why early treatment is critical
Dr. P. Vijaya, Senior Neurologist and President of the Indian Stroke Association (ISA), explains that stroke can cause short- and long-term problems depending on the area and size of the brain affected. Common complications include paralysis on one side of the body, speech and swallowing difficulties, and vision problems. Every minute counts because nearly two million brain cells die every minute during a stroke.
If a patient with an ischemic stroke reaches the hospital within 4.5 hours, doctors can give a clot-dissolving injection (tPA). This treatment helps restore blood flow to the brain, reduces damage, and can even reverse paralysis in many cases. Once the golden window closes, this medicine becomes ineffective, and damage is often permanent.
Dr. Arvind Sharma, Stroke Specialist and Secretary of the ISA, emphasizes that stroke treatment should be treated with the same urgency as a heart attack. Many patients waste precious time by ignoring symptoms or thinking they are caused by fatigue or minor illness. Early hospital care focuses on quickly identifying the type of stroke and restoring blood flow to the brain. In severe cases, emergency procedures or surgery may be needed to remove clots. Quick intervention helps limit brain damage and reduces the risk of lifelong paralysis.
Rehabilitation is also important. Early physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy can help patients regain strength and independence. The sooner treatment and rehabilitation begin, the better the chances of recovering normal functions and returning to daily life.
Preventing strokes through lifestyle changes
Most strokes can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and controlling medical conditions like blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol are essential. Experts also recommend quitting smoking and reducing salt intake.
Patients are advised to:
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Monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels regularly.
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Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.
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Stop smoking and avoid alcohol abuse.
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Follow a healthy diet with less salt and more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
By adopting these habits, people can lower their risk of stroke and improve overall brain health. Prevention is always better than treatment, but knowing what to do when a stroke occurs is equally important.
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