Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability globally, making timely treatment crucial for improving outcomes. The phrase "Time is brain" encapsulates the urgency of stroke care, emphasising that every minute counts in saving brain cells and minimising long-term damage. Rapid response not only enhances recovery prospects but also significantly impacts the quality of life for individuals who experience a stroke. Read our latest blog to know more and you can connect with Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital for the best medical assistance and 24/7 emergency care.

Understanding Stroke:

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to brain cell damage. There are two primary types of strokes: ischaemic strokes, caused by blood clots that block blood vessels and haemorrhagic strokes, resulting from bleeding in the brain. Regardless of the type, prompt medical attention is essential for effective treatment.

Recognising the Symptoms:

Awareness of stroke symptoms is vital for early intervention. The acronym B.E.F.A.S.T serves as an easy way to remember the warning signs:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• Eyes: Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes.
• Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile; their smile may be uneven.
• Arm weakness: One arm may be weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms; one arm may drift downwards.
• Speech difficulties: Speech may be slurred, or the person may be unable to speak. Ask them to repeat a simple phrase.
• Time to call emergency services: If any of these symptoms are present, call for help immediately.

Recognising these symptoms and acting quickly can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.

The Role of Time in Stroke Treatment:

Research indicates that for every minute a stroke goes untreated, approximately 1.9 million brain cells die. This staggering statistic underscores the importance of immediate action. When stroke symptoms appear, the clock starts ticking. The quicker the patient receives medical attention, the greater the chance of preserving brain function and reducing the risk of permanent disability.

The Golden Hour in Stroke Care:

The first hour after a stroke is often referred to as the "golden hour". During this time, medical professionals can administer treatments that can minimise brain damage. The two most common treatments for ischaemic stroke are:

1. Thrombolysis: This treatment involves administering a clot-busting drug, usually within the first 4.5 hours of symptom onset. The sooner the medication is given, the better the chances of restoring blood flow to the affected area of the brain.

2. Mechanical Thrombectomy: For certain patients, a procedure to physically remove the clot may be performed. This procedure is most effective within the first 24 hours of stroke onset.

The efficacy of these treatments is closely linked to how quickly the patient receives care. Delays in treatment can lead to poorer outcomes, including increased risk of long-term disability and even death.

Barriers to Timely Treatment:

Despite the clear benefits of rapid response, several barriers can delay treatment for stroke patients:

• Lack of Awareness: Many individuals are unaware of the signs and symptoms of stroke. This lack of knowledge can lead to delays in seeking medical attention.
• Misinterpretation of Symptoms: Some may dismiss stroke symptoms as temporary or related to other health issues, delaying their response.
• Access to Emergency Services: In certain areas, access to timely emergency services may be limited, affecting the speed at which patients receive care.
• Fear and Stigma: Some individuals may hesitate to seek help due to fear of what others might think or concerns about being a burden to healthcare services.

Promoting Rapid Response:

To improve outcomes for stroke patients, communities and healthcare providers must focus on education and awareness. Campaigns aimed at increasing public knowledge about stroke symptoms can empower individuals to act quickly. Educational programmes in schools, workplaces and community centres can provide essential information on recognising stroke symptoms and the importance of immediate action.

Healthcare systems also play a vital role in ensuring rapid response. Emergency departments should have protocols in place for quickly assessing and treating stroke patients. This includes training staff to recognise stroke symptoms and prioritise patients presenting with these symptoms.

The Importance of Post-Stroke Care:

After a stroke, the focus shifts to rehabilitation and recovery. While immediate treatment is critical, ongoing care is equally important for maximising recovery potential. Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to help individuals regain lost functions and adapt to changes in their abilities.

Family and community support are also essential in the recovery process. Encouraging loved ones to participate in rehabilitation can provide emotional support and motivation, making a significant difference in the individual's recovery journey.

Conclusion:

The adage "Time is brain" highlights the urgency of responding swiftly to stroke symptoms. Recognising the signs of stroke and acting promptly can significantly influence treatment outcomes and improve the quality of life for those affected. By promoting awareness and understanding of stroke symptoms and ensuring access to timely medical care, we can save lives and reduce the impact of stroke on individuals and families. The path to better stroke care starts with education, rapid response and a commitment to ongoing support for recovery. Connect with Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital for the best medical assistance and 24/7 emergency care.

Disclaimer:

Though all attempts are made to provide correct information on the subject, inadvertent & typographical errors arising out of manual intervention cannot be ruled out. It is requested to bring any such discrepancies to the notice of the blogger for correction.