Essential prevention tips and warning signs for stroke management

Ludhiana, October 29, 2024: Every year World Stroke Day is observed on October 29 to raise awareness about prevention and treatment of stroke. This year theme for the day is ‘A call to Act BEFAST to Save Lives’.

With advancements in healthcare, the average life expectancy has surpassed 70 years, alongside diabetes and heart disease, stroke is emerging as a new-age epidemic. In India, approximately 1.5 to 2.5 million new stroke cases arise each year, making it a significant health concern that impacts both healthcare systems and communities. Alarmingly, 20-30% of these strokes now occur in individuals under 40 years of age.

In his message, Bipin Gupta, Secretary, DMC&H Managing Society, said that Department of Neurology at DMC&H has state of the art facilities to cater the need of the stroke patients.

Dr Gagandeep Singh, Professor & Head Department of Neurology, DMC&H, highlighted the   two types of Strokes ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes, caused by a clot blocking a blood vessel in the brain, account for about 85% of cases. Once viewed as predominantly debilitating, with permanent paralysis as a common outcome, stroke treatment has seen remarkable breakthrough over the last decade.

Further Dr Gagandeep said that DMC&H has been a pioneer in stroke treatment, all the latest treatment facilities including Intravenous Thrombolysis,  Mechanical Thrombectomy, Stenting are available in DMC&H. Recently awarded the “Angels GOLD Award” for exemplary service. Dr. Dhananjay Gupta, an Assistant Professor of Neurology with expertise in minimally invasive and endovascular neurosurgery, has played a crucial role in these interventions.

Over the past year, DMC Ludhiana has successfully performed more than 120 neuro-interventional cases, including 23 Mechanical Thrombectomies and 25 Stentings. A notable case involved a 42-year-old from Jalandhar who, after experiencing complete paralysis on one side, regained full mobility just two days post-procedure.

Dr Dhanajay Gupta, Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, DMC&H stated that in stroke treatment, time is critical. Early recognition of symptoms can save lives. Remember the acronym: “F.A.S.T”- F: Facial deviation, A: Arm or leg weakness, S: Speech problems, T: Timely intervention is crucial.