Stroke is a deadly disease affecting more than 15 million people each year. You can also call it a heart attack of the brain, as it is somewhat equivalent to it. Stroke is a medical condition when the blood that flows to the brain gets blocked for some reason. This blockage leads to the brain cells getting deprived of the oxygen and glucose they need.

Diagnosing brain stroke early is very crucial; if not treated at the earliest, it can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.

People with age 75 or above are at the highest risk of getting a brain stroke. Factors like less physical activity and poor lifestyle also contribute to the occurrence of a brain stroke.

Dr. Vikas Gupta, a well-known and highly experienced Neurosurgeon who is also a member of the World Stroke Organisation, says, “Time is the most critical factor in stroke treatment. Every second lost means potential damage to the brain. Rapid diagnosis and immediate care can save lives and preserve quality of life.”

What are the Symptoms of Stroke?

There is no doubt that the more early the symptoms are recognised, the more influential the treatment will be. Some of the most common symptoms of a brain stroke are as follows:

• Difficulty speaking (slur words)
• Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the face, arm or leg
• Headache
• Trouble in walking
• Vomiting and Nausea
• Fainting or blackout
• Stiffness in neck

One of Dr. Vikas’s patients said, “I ignored the headache and nausea, thinking it only stress. But when I started to faint, I realised something was wrong with me. Dr. Vikas helped me understand how crucial it is to recognise stroke symptoms as early as possible. His treatment saved my life.”

What is the Main Cause of Stroke?

The leading cause of a stroke remains the same, which is the blockage in the blood flow to the brain. However, a stroke can also happen because of many other reasons and it can vary from person to person and type of stroke. A person may experience a stroke if they are:

• Highly obese or overweight
• More than 55 years old
• Have a family history of stroke
• Alcoholic
• Diabetic
• Blood pressure patient
• Chain smoker

Besides these factors, conditions like heart disease, high cholesterol, and increased sugar and fat levels can also be the reason for getting a stroke.

What Are 4 Types of Stroke?

The four main types of strokes are:

• Ischemic Stroke: The most common type, caused by a blood clot blocking an artery to the brain, cutting off blood flow. Treatment includes clot-busting medications like tPA or mechanical thrombectomy to remove the clot.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by a ruptured blood vessel leading to bleeding in the brain. Treatment focuses on controlling bleeding, often through surgery or medications to lower blood pressure.
• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A temporary blockage that resolves quickly but signals a high risk for future strokes. Immediate treatment with blood thinners can reduce stroke risk.
• Cryptogenic Stroke: The cause is unknown. Treatment usually focuses on preventing another stroke, with medications like anticoagulants.

What Are the Treatment Options For Stroke?

Treatment options for stroke depend upon the type of stroke and its severity. Basically, there are different types of treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical. Some of the surgical treatment options include:

• Clipping: A metal clip is placed at the bottom or base of the aneurysm to stop blood flow.
• Coil embolization: A flexible tube is inserted into an artery in the upper thigh to block blood flow to an aneurysm.
• Endovascular thrombectomy: A special device is used to remove a large blood clot.

Other non-surgical treatment options include:

• Antiplatelet drugs: Commonly recommended agents include acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), clopidogrel, and a combination of ASA and extended-release dipyridamole.
• Therapy: Physical therapy can help with mobility, speech therapy can help with communication, occupational therapy can help with hand movements and muscle control, and cognitive therapy can help with memory problems.

What is the Rehabilitation Treatment for Stroke Patients?

The rehabilitation process for stroke means relearning the ability to do things which a person couldn’t perform post stroke. Stroke rehabilitation is considered an effective line of treatment, improving motor function, compared to normal care.

Some of the main components of stroke rehabilitation include:

• Speech Therapy: Addressing speech problems, such as slur words, stuttering, etc. Speech therapists help patients speak correctly, communicate without any problems, and understand language.
• Physical Therapy: It is a type of therapy which totally focuses on improving mobility, regaining balance, walking, and performing daily activities.
• Psychological Support: Besides physical and speech therapy, a person post-stroke should also be in the right state of mind. To help patients cope with the psychological effects of a stroke, such as anxiety, depression, or changes in self-esteem, this therapy is considered helpful.

Is Neurosurgery Necessary in Stroke Treatment?

Yes, neurosurgery can play a very important role in treating the majority of the strokes. Some of the  conditions where it is required the most are:

• Hemorrhagic Stroke
• Ischemic Stroke
• Severe Brain Swelling
• Aneurysm Repair

Neurosurgery can be a vital option to treat blood clotting, relieving blood pressure, and ruptured blood vessels.

What is the Cost of Stroke Treatment in India?

Cost of stroke treatment in India can vary extensively based on numerous factors, such as the type of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic), the treatment required (medical management, neurosurgery, rehabilitation), the complexity of the case, and the hospital’s location and reputation. Here’s a general breakdown of the cost:

• Ischemic Stroke Treatment: Costs can range from INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000 (approximately USD 240 to USD 1,200), depending on the hospital and treatment complicacy.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke Treatment: Treatment costs typically start from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 (approximately USD 600 to USD 2,400).
• Rehabilitation: Post-stroke rehabilitation can range from INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000 (approximately USD 240 to USD 1,200), depending on the duration and type of therapy opted (physical, occupational, or speech therapy).

Conclusion

Stroke is a fast-growing, deadly disease affecting millions of people around the globe. Raising awareness of this condition is crucial for saving lives. Symptoms like difficulty speaking and walking, numbness in the face, nausea, and vomiting should not be ignored. Post-stroke rehabilitation helps with managing this condition effectively. Major types of stroke are Ischemic Stroke, Hemorrhagic Stroke, Transient Ischemic Attack, and Cryptogenic Stroke. If you are someone or know someone who has experienced these symptoms, you should consult a medical professional straight away.

FAQs

1. What immediate actions should be taken if stroke symptoms are noticed?

Act FAST: Face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulties, and call emergency services immediately.

2. How is stroke diagnosed?

Stroke diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging tests (CT or MRI), blood tests, and an electrocardiogram (ECG).

3. What is the recovery timeline for stroke patients?

Recovery timelines vary, with some patients improving in weeks while others may take months or years.

4. Can strokes be prevented?

Yes, by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular check-ups, medication adherence, and limiting alcohol.

5. What is the role of diet in stroke prevention?

A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and low in sodium can reduce stroke risk.

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