Recognising Stroke Symptoms Early Can Save Lives

India

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Recognising stroke symptoms early and reaching a hospital without delay can make a significant difference to a patient’s chances of recovery, doctors at CARE Hospitals have said on the occasion of World Stroke Day. Observed globally on October 29, this year’s theme, “Every M1nute Counts,” highlights the importance of timely medical intervention, particularly during the critical early period often referred to as the ‘Golden Hour’ in stroke care.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. Without adequate blood supply, brain cells begin to suffer damage, potentially affecting movement, speech, vision, memory and other essential functions. Although stroke is more common among older adults, doctors caution that younger people are also at risk, particularly those with uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol and smoking habits.

In stroke care, the first hour after symptoms begin is often described as the ‘Golden Hour’, emphasising the need for immediate medical attention. However, treatment opportunities extend beyond this period and depend on the type of stroke, clinical assessment and time since symptom onset. For eligible patients with an ischaemic stroke, clot-dissolving medication may be administered within 4.5 hours, while mechanical thrombectomy may be considered for selected patients up to 24 hours after symptoms begin, based on clinical and imaging findings.

Doctors emphasise that these treatment windows should never be interpreted as a reason to wait. The earlier a patient reaches an appropriate stroke care facility, the sooner doctors can assess the condition and initiate suitable treatment.

One of the major concerns in stroke care is that patients and their families often fail to recognise the early warning signs. Sudden weakness in an arm or leg, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, loss of balance and vision disturbances may indicate a stroke. In some cases, symptoms may disappear within minutes, leading people to believe that medical attention is unnecessary. However, these episodes could be transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), which require urgent medical evaluation.

F – Face: Sudden drooping or weakness on one side of the face.

A – Arms: Weakness or difficulty lifting one arm.

S – Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding others.

T – Time: Seek emergency medical attention immediately.

“Many stroke patients reach the hospital late because families wait for symptoms to improve or assume the weakness will pass. This delay can cost valuable treatment time. The first hour is particularly critical, but every minute matters from the moment symptoms begin. If someone develops sudden facial drooping, weakness or difficulty speaking, the family should seek emergency care immediately rather than waiting. Early hospital arrival gives us a better opportunity to assess the patient and offer appropriate treatment before further brain damage occurs,” said Dr. S K Jaiswal, Clinical Director and HOD – Neurology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Doctors also highlighted the concern around stroke risk factors among younger adults. High blood pressure remains one of the most important modifiable risk factors, particularly because it often develops without noticeable symptoms. Diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and certain heart conditions can further increase stroke risk.

“According to the World Health Organization, hypertension is a major contributor to stroke risk. Regular blood pressure monitoring, adherence to prescribed medication, a balanced diet, physical activity and avoiding tobacco can help reduce the likelihood of stroke.

“Stroke is not a condition that affects only older people. We also see younger adults with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking and high cholesterol. Many people ignore high blood pressure because they feel perfectly healthy, while others stop medication once their readings improve. These are risks that can often be managed. Being young does not mean someone is protected from stroke, and prevention needs to begin well before serious complications develop,” said Dr. Prof. Umesh T, Clinical Director, Head of Academics, & Senior Consultant – Neurologist, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills.

Treatment depends on whether the stroke is caused by a blocked or ruptured blood vessel, the time elapsed since symptoms began and the patient’s clinical condition. Rapid brain imaging and specialist evaluation help determine the appropriate course of treatment. Doctors also stressed that stroke care does not end with emergency intervention. Depending on the severity of the stroke, patients may require physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy and continued medical follow-up to regain lost functions and improve their quality of life.

On World Stroke Day, CARE Hospitals urged people not to ignore sudden neurological symptoms or wait for them to resolve on their own. Families should seek emergency medical assistance immediately and, where possible, note the time symptoms first appeared or when the patient was last known to be well. Recognising stroke early, avoiding treatment delays and managing preventable risk factors can help reduce stroke-related deaths and long-term disability.