Post by : Saif Rahman

Strokes represent one of the most perilous medical crises that can arise abruptly, frequently without any forewarning. Medical professionals emphasize that recognizing and responding to early signs swiftly can save lives and minimize the risk of lasting impairments. Dr. Rahul Chawla, an AIIMS-trained neurologist, has delivered a crucial reminder on not dismissing even mild stroke symptoms.

In an Instagram video, Dr. Chawla, who practices at IBS Hospital in New Delhi and is the founder of HealthPil.com, elaborated on how strokes can initiate with fleeting symptoms, referred to as Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs), or “mini-strokes.” While these signs may vanish in a few hours, they serve as serious alerts indicating that a more significant stroke could soon occur.

Dr. Chawla stated that a TIA may manifest as tingling or numbness in a limb, slurred speech, drooping facial features, or loss of balance while walking. Although these disturbances might resolve temporarily, the individual is not necessarily in the clear. He cautioned, “A stroke can occur suddenly. Often, there are no preliminary signals like headaches before it strikes.”

To underline the risks of ignoring these indicators, Dr. Chawla recounted the tale of a 60-year-old patient with hypertension, diabetes, and a smoking and drinking habit. Suddenly, he experienced numbness and weakness in his arm and leg, along with a weak hand grip—clear signs of potential stroke.

The man visited the hospital, but his symptoms faded by the time he arrived. Assuming he was alright, he left without consulting a physician. Regrettably, the following morning, the symptoms recurred but vanished again before he could reach medical attention. Dr. Chawla warned him that these recurring instances were TIAs and that a comprehensive stroke could happen without warning.

Regrettably, the man overlooked the warning signs. Mere hours later, he endured a significant stroke, resulting in total loss of function in his arm and leg. He required a wheelchair for hospitalization. An MRI indicated that he had suffered a large stroke in the right hemisphere of his brain, known as the “Right MCA Territory infarct.”

Dr. Chawla's account drives home the urgency of acting promptly. Upon a stroke's onset, medical professionals typically have a three-hour timeframe to administer treatment effective in dissolving the blood clot obstructing the brain. Delays can lead to irreversible damage, resulting in paralysis or even death.

He also mentioned that many individuals confuse the initial signs of a stroke with fatigue or stress. Symptoms like numbness, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, facial droop, dizziness, or balance issues must never be overlooked. Even when such symptoms seem to dissipate, consultation with a healthcare provider is imperative.

Furthermore, Dr. Chawla urged individuals to prioritize health to mitigate stroke risks. He recommended managing blood pressure, controlling diabetes, quitting smoking, minimizing alcohol consumption, and incorporating regular exercise. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and ensuring regular medical checkups can significantly diminish stroke likelihood.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a section of the brain is obstructed or reduced, depriving brain tissue of essential oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells can die within minutes. Acting swiftly can lessen damage and enhance recovery chances.

The takeaway from Dr. Chawla’s message is clear: never disregard even fleeting numbness, weakness, or speech issues. These could herald more significant health concerns. Immediate medical help can be the key to either full recovery or enduring disabilities.

#Health #Wellness