Brain stroke: Symptoms, treatment, prevention strategies

Key to treat brain stroke is to identify the symptoms as soon as possible and seek medical attention at a hospital equipped for acute stroke care. (Image: Canva)

When a blood vessel in the brain bursts (haemorrhagic stroke) or becomes blocked (ischemic stroke), the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, resulting in a brain stroke, also known as a brain attack. About 85 percent of strokes are ischemic, meaning they are brought on by blockages that prevent blood flow, and the other 15 percent are haemorrhagic, meaning they are brought on by blood vessel leaks that cause bleeding in the brain.

Recognising the symptoms of a stroke and seeking emergency medical assistance is crucial to prevent irreversible brain damage, permanent disability, or even death.

Who are most vulnerable

Certain groups are more likely to have a stroke. Smokers, people with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and those with underlying cardiac problems are especially vulnerable, says Dr Vipul Gupta, director of Neurointervention and co-chief of the stroke unit at Artemis hospital, Gurugram.

Older adults and individuals with genetic predispositions are also at higher risk, he says and adds that over the past 20 years, there has been a notable rise in stroke-related deaths, making it the second most common cause of death globally.

According to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, stroke deaths have increased by 26 percent worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries suffering the majority of this increase—roughly 85 percent. In these regions, the incidence rate of stroke has doubled over the last three decades. Like other developing countries, India is experiencing a hidden stroke epidemic.

Symptoms of brain stroke

Recognising the symptoms of a stroke is critical for effective treatment and prevention of long-term disability.

Typical symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the face, arm, or leg. This unilateral weakness may be accompanied by a sudden onset of confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and sudden vision impairment in one or both eyes, says Dr Gupta.

Other signs can include sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and an abrupt, severe headache with no known cause. It is imperative to remember the acronym FAST: Face (facial drooping), Arm (arm weakness), Speech (speech difficulties), and Time (the urgency of seeking medical help).

Cure for brain stroke

Immediate medical intervention is essential to mitigate the effects of a stroke. Treatment options vary depending on the type of stroke—ischemic (caused by a blockage) or haemorrhagic (caused by bleeding).

Ischemic strokes may be treated with medications such as clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics) administered intravenously within a specific time window after symptom onset, typically up to 4.5 hours.

For some patients, mechanical thrombectomy a procedure using specialised devices to remove clots from blocked blood vessels can be performed within 24 hours of symptom onset to restore blood flow to the affected brain tissue.

Timely intervention significantly improves outcomes and reduces the risk of long-term disability. Stroke survivors who receive prompt medical care and follow a comprehensive rehabilitation plan have better chances of regaining independence and quality of life.

Key to treat brain stroke is to identify the symptoms as soon as possible and seek medical attention at a hospital equipped for acute stroke care.