Stroke: Doctor explains warning signs, emergency steps, and life-saving treatments

When it comes to stroke, every minute matters. Each passing minute without treatment can lead to the death of almost two million brain cells. That is why the phrase “TIME IS BRAIN” is so important. Stroke continues to be one of the leading causes of death and disability in India, but quick recognition and timely hospital care can save both lives and abilities.

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A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted. This can happen in two ways. In a haemorrhagic stroke, a blood vessel in the brain bursts and causes bleeding. In an ischemic stroke, a blood clot blocks blood flow to a portion of the brain. In both cases, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, and they begin to die within minutes. The longer the delay, the greater the permanent damage.

The warning signs of stroke often appear suddenly and are easy to overlook unless you know what to watch for. The “BE FAST” rule makes it simple:
B – Balance: Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or trouble walking.
E – Eyes: Sudden blurred vision, double vision, or loss of sight in one eye.
F – Face: Drooping on one side of the face or an uneven smile.
A – Arm: Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg.
S – Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or trouble understanding.
T – Time: Act quickly. Call emergency services and rush to a hospital equipped for stroke care.
Even if these symptoms disappear in minutes, don’t ignore them. Such episodes, often called mini-strokes or transient ischemic attacks, can be early warnings of a major stroke.

Every minute after a stroke, about 1.9 million brain cells die. That is why acting quickly makes the difference between recovery and lifelong disability. Treatments are available, but they work only if patients arrive at the hospital on time.
Within 4.5 hours, doctors can use clot-busting medicines to dissolve a blockage.
In selected patients, advanced procedures like mechanical thrombectomy (removing the clot with a catheter) may be done up to 24 hours after onset.
All of this depends on how quickly the patient is brought to a stroke-ready hospital.

If you think someone is having a stroke:
Do not wait—act immediately.
Call an ambulance rather than driving yourself or the patient.
Go to a hospital with CT/MRI and a stroke unit, as not all hospitals are prepared.
Note the exact time symptoms began. Doctors use this information to decide treatment.
Do not give the patient food, water, or medicines until they are assessed.

The outcome depends largely on awareness and the speed of response. Remember the two phrases that save lives: “BE FAST” and “TIME IS BRAIN.” Acting fast could mean the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability—or even life and death.
Dr. Radhika Manohar, Consultant – Neurology, Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road, Bangalore