Stroke Awareness: Recognize Early, Act Fast

By Dr. Ashish Srivastava — Consultant Physician, Abhisri Hospital, Unnao

Understanding Stroke

A stroke, often called a brain attack, happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is suddenly interrupted — either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). When brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, they begin to die within minutes, leading to loss of movement, speech, or other vital functions.

In some cases, patients experience a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or mini-stroke — where symptoms are brief but serve as a serious warning sign for a potential future stroke.

Why Awareness Matters

Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in India. The tragedy is that many strokes are preventable, and most are treatable — if recognized and managed on time.

The key lies in awareness: knowing the warning signs, understanding the risk factors, and acting immediately. Every second counts because “time is brain.”

Recognize the Signs — BE FAST

A simple way to remember the warning signs is the acronym BE FAST:

Letter Meaning What to Watch For
B Balance Sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
E Eyes Blurred or double vision, sudden vision loss
F Face Drooping on one side when smiling
A Arms Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg
S Speech Slurred or difficult speech, confusion
T Time If any of these appear, rush to the hospital immediately

Even a single symptom means you should seek emergency medical help — don’t wait for it to get worse.

Major Risk Factors

Certain health and lifestyle factors increase the likelihood of stroke. The good news is that many are modifiable:
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Diabetes mellitus
• High cholesterol
• Smoking or alcohol overuse
• Sedentary lifestyle and obesity
• Heart disease (especially atrial fibrillation)
• Stress and poor sleep

Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and medication adherence can significantly reduce your stroke risk.

Emergency Action Plan

If you suspect a stroke:
1. Call emergency services immediately.
2. Note the time symptoms began — this is crucial for treatment decisions.
3. Do not give food, water, or medicines unless advised.
4. Reach a stroke-ready hospital where expert care and diagnostic facilities are available.

Timely treatment, especially within the first 3–4.5 hours, can often restore blood flow and minimize long-term damage.

The Road to Recovery

Recovery after stroke doesn’t end at discharge. Comprehensive rehabilitation — including physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling — plays a vital role in regaining independence.

At Abhisri Hospital, we emphasize early and structured rehabilitation programs to help patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence.

Prevention Is the Best Cure

• Keep blood pressure and sugar levels under control
• Eat a low-salt, low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Manage stress and ensure adequate sleep
• Attend regular medical check-ups

By adopting these simple measures, you can drastically lower your stroke risk and live a healthier life.

Stroke can strike anyone, anytime — but awareness and quick action save lives. Recognizing the signs and responding without delay can mean the difference between recovery and lifelong disability.