Stroke and Paralysis: Know the Signs and Act Fast
A stroke is a medical emergency. When blood supply to the brain is suddenly cut off — or when there is bleeding inside the brain — brain cells begin to suffer very quickly. This is what doctors call a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke.
Dr. Nikhila Pachani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Backbone Medicity Hospital, Rajkot, is raising awareness about this serious condition so that families across Gujarat can recognise it early and seek help without delay.
What Causes a Stroke?
There are two main reasons a stroke can happen:
- Blocked blood vessel – A clot or blockage stops blood from reaching part of the brain.
- Internal bleeding in the brain – A blood vessel bursts, causing bleeding inside the brain tissue.
Both types prevent the brain from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function.
What Are the Warning Signs?
Stroke can appear suddenly. The most common signs include:
- Paralysis – One side of the body, an arm, or a leg suddenly feels weak or cannot move.
- Facial deviation – One side of the face droops or looks uneven, especially when the person tries to smile.
- Slurred speech – Words come out unclear, or the person finds it hard to speak or understand others.
A simple way to remember this is the FAST test:
- F – Face drooping
- A – Arm weakness
- S – Speech difficulty
- T – Time to call for help immediately
Why Does Timely Diagnosis Matter?
Every minute counts during a stroke. The sooner a patient reaches a hospital, the more brain tissue doctors can try to protect. Proper diagnosis — through imaging and clinical assessment — helps doctors decide the right course of management quickly.
Delaying care can lead to lasting paralysis, difficulty speaking, or other long-term effects. This is why recognising the signs early and rushing to a hospital without waiting is so important.
A Note for Families in Rajkot and Gujarat
Stroke can affect people of any age. Being aware of the warning signs and staying on top of heart and blood pressure health are important steps in reducing risk.
If you or someone you know experiences sudden weakness, facial drooping, or slurred speech, treat it as an emergency and head to the nearest hospital right away.
For personalised guidance on stroke risk factors or heart health, consider booking a consultation with a qualified cardiologist.