World Stroke Day 2024: Doctor Debunks 4 Common Stroke Myths

Preventing Stroke Begins With Awareness It is crucial for Indians to learn about stroke and make themselves aware to prevent fatalities and life-long complications associated with stroke. Dr Neeraj Singh, a consultant endovascular neurosurgeon says India is home to millions of stroke patients. Stroke is a leading cause of death and permanent disability. Every year, a large number of people lose their lives to stroke, making it a medical emergency, he states.What Is Stroke? Stroke usually occurs when the blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or interrupted. It can result in severe damage to the brain and drastically affect patients' and their loved ones' lives, the doctor says. This is why it becomes crucial to understand the severity of stroke and how recognising the symptoms early on can help save lives. Time is precious. Scroll down to know about some misconceptions about stroke which, the doctor says can delay treatment.Myth: Stroke Is Similar To A Heart Attack Fact: Although stroke and heart attack share the same risk factors, they are distinct health complications. Heart attack affects the heart, whereas stroke affects the brain. During a stroke, blood flow to the brain is interrupted abruptly, leading to a lack of oxygen in the tissues, Dr Singh explains.Myth: Stroke Symptoms Are Hard To Recognise Fact: Symptoms associated with stroke are visible and easily recognised. The easiest and most effective way to remember stroke symptoms is the 'BE FAST' acronym. The common symptoms include loss of balance, changes in eyesight, face drooling, weakness in the arm, and difficulty in speaking. Most people are unaware of these symptoms, leading to delayed treatment and medical attention, the expert says.Myth: Aspirin Is Best Home Remedy For Stroke Fact: According to the doctor, people should not blindly believe everything they see online. Taking aspirin without consulting with your healthcare specialist can worsen your condition and cause complications. Aspirin can even be fatal if the stroke is due to abrupt bleeding in the brain.Myth: Stroke Is Only Common In Elderly People Fact: It was true earlier. But now, people aged 25-40 are also suffering from it, the doctor warns. Poor eating habits, stress, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are some factors behind it. Stroke can occur at any age now. People belonging to every age group should prevent it by eating nutritious food, exercising, staying stress-free by doing yoga and meditation, and managing diabetes and hypertension by taking medication.