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Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Mohan Leslie Noone, Senior Consultant, Neurology,  Baby Memorial Hospitals-Kozhikode

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause sudden weakness, speech problems, vision loss, or paralysis. Stroke management involves immediate emergency care, medical treatment, and rehabilitation to minimize brain damage, restore function, and prevent future strokes.

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel bursts (hemorrhagic stroke). Without quick treatment, brain cells begin to die, leading to permanent damage or disability.

What are the warning signs of a stroke?

Remember the acronym FAST:

  • F – Face: Drooping on one side
  • A – Arm: Weakness or numbness
  • S – Speech: Slurred or difficult speech
  • T – Time: Call emergency services immediately

Other symptoms include sudden vision changes, dizziness, confusion, or severe headache.

How is a stroke diagnosed?

Doctors use:

  • CT Scan or MRI to detect type and location of the stroke
  • Blood tests to check clotting and other risk factors
  • Carotid Doppler and Echocardiogram to find the cause of blockage or clot formation
What are the types of stroke?
  • Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blood clot blocking a brain artery (most common type)
  • Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by bleeding within or around the brain
  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A “mini-stroke” where symptoms last less than 24 hours — a warning sign of future strokes
How is a stroke treated?

Immediate emergency treatment is crucial:

  • Ischemic Stroke: Clot-busting medications (like tPA) or mechanical clot removal (thrombectomy) within the first few hours
  • Hemorrhagic Stroke: Surgery or procedures to control bleeding and reduce pressure in the brain
  • Long-term management includes blood pressure control, antiplatelet drugs, cholesterol management, and lifestyle changes.
What is the recovery process after a stroke?
  • Acute phase: Stabilization in a stroke unit or ICU
  • Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to regain lost skills
  • Ongoing care: Managing risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease to prevent recurrence

Recovery can take weeks to months, depending on stroke severity and promptness of treatment.

Can a stroke be prevented?

Yes. Prevention focuses on controlling risk factors:

  • Keep blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol in check
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
  • Exercise regularly
  • Take prescribed antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications if advised
What are the long-term effects of a stroke?

Some patients experience weakness on one side, speech or memory problems, emotional changes, or mobility issues. With proper rehabilitation and medical follow-up, many regain independence and quality of life.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you or someone you know experiences sudden weakness, speech difficulty, or facial drooping, seek immediate emergency care. The Comprehensive Stroke Unit at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) provides 24/7 stroke management, including rapid diagnosis, clot removal, and specialized rehabilitation — ensuring the best possible recovery outcomes.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our neurology and stroke care specialists.

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