Stroke

A sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain — a medical emergency needing immediate treatment.

Overview

A stroke or an ischaemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced. This prevents brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. Another type of stroke, called a haemorrhagic stroke, occurs when a blood vessel leaks or bursts and causes bleeding in the brain. This increases the pressure on the brain cells and damages them.

A stroke is a medical emergency. It's crucial to get medical treatment right away.

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How common is stroke in India?

119 to 145 per 100,000 cases in India every year
More common in urban areas
20-30% of stroke cases occur in people aged below 50 years
Ischaemic stroke accounts for 70-80% of all cases

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What causes a stroke?

Ischaemic stroke

Hardened arteries due to fat buildup (Atherosclerosis)
Irregular heartbeat
Blood clot
Heart defects

Haemorrhagic stroke

High, uncontrolled blood pressure
Overtreatment with blood thinners
Bulges at weak spots of blood vessels called aneurysms
Ischaemic stroke

Sometimes, a temporary decrease in blood supply to the brain can also cause a stroke, but might not cause any permanent damage. This is called a transient ischaemic attack.

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Risk factors

Overweight/obese
Physical inactivity
Heavy drinking
Use of illegal drugs like cocaine
High blood pressure
Smoking
Aged above 55 years
High cholesterol
Suffering from a cardiovascular disease like heart failure, heart infection or irregular heart rhythms
Personal or family history of stroke
Previously suffered a COVID-19 infection

Symptoms of stroke

Speech slurring
Numbness/paralysis in the arms or legs
Problems seeing in one or both eyes
Headache
Trouble walking
Dizziness
Loss of muscle coordination
Memory loss

To recognize the signs of stroke, remember to BEFASTTo recognize the signs of stroke, remember to BEFAST

To recognize the signs of stroke, remember to BEFAST

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Diagnosis

Blood tests
CT scan – a detailed scan that creates clear pictures inside the body
A reading of your brain activity, called an electroencephalogram
Magnetic resonance imaging of your brain

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Treatment

Blood thinning medications to dissolve the blood clot- can be given via pills, injection or via a catheter (thin tube)
Surgery to stop the bleeding in the brain

Supportive Care

Helps improve
Memory, concentration and other mental abilities
Carry out your daily tasks and movements
Restore strength
Regain speech
Helps manage symptoms like pain, breathing difficulties and treatment-related side effects

What are the side effects of treatment?

Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Increased bleeding risk

Lifestyle & Prevention

Recommended diet

Eat more fruits and vegetables
Choose whole grains such as oats and brown rice
Include protein like eggs, fish, beans, and lentils
Drink enough water
Limit processed and fried foods

Exercise tips

Start with short walks
Do breathing exercises regularly
Avoid overexertion
Increase activity slowly as strength improves

Prevention

Stop smoking
Control blood pressure

Eat healthy
Exercise
Consume a healthy diet

When to contact a doctor?

Warning signs

Immediately call or get someone to call emergency services if you notice any symptoms of stroke again

Myths & Facts

Myth

Stroke only happens in the older population

Fact

Around 25% of stroke cases occur in people aged below 65 years and 30% in those aged below 50

Myth

Stroke can be painful

Fact

While haemorrhagic strokes can cause headaches, ischaemic strokes (caused by blood clots) do not cause pain

Myth

Treat a stroke by taking aspirin

Fact

Aspirin does nothing to treat an ischaemic stroke and will make a haemorrhagic stroke worse. Going to the hospital is always the right answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do victims of a stroke ever return to normal after suffering a stroke?

The extent of recovery varies. A stroke kills brain cells. The extent of the brain damage and the size of the stroke are directly related to the extent of the impairments. People who suffer a minor stroke may have only slight impairments, such as a weak arm or leg. A massive stroke, however, can cause a person to lose the ability to read, write, or speak. It also can cause paralysis. Fortunately, with rehabilitation therapy, about 25% of victims recover with slight impairments and an additional 10% recover almost completely.

Am I at risk of a stroke?

Smoking, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure all can greatly increase your risk for a stroke. Risk for stroke provides one more compelling reason to quit smoking. In addition, diet and exercise can help control cholesterol, which is another risk factor for stroke. And, proper medication management can help control diabetes, and high blood pressure.

What supportive care services are available for stroke victims?

Rehabilitation is a critical aspect of stroke care. This includes ncludes speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, with rehabilitative physicians and staff who specialize in helping stroke patients regain their independence