Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. According to the World Stroke Organization, one in four adults over the age of 25 will experience a stroke in their lifetime. In India alone, nearly 1.8 million people suffer a stroke each year, with many arriving too late for treatment.

Recognizing the symptoms early and acting fast can dramatically improve outcomes. Treatments like clot-busting medications are most effective when given within the first 3–4.5 hours. The sooner a person receives help, the better their chances of recovery and survival.

The key is to educate yourself and others around you. Stroke doesn’t wait — and neither should you.

A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to begin dying within minutes.

There are two main types of stroke:

• Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage (like a blood clot). Most common type (87% of cases).
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by bleeding in the brain due to a burst blood vessel.
• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A temporary blockage that resolves on its own. It causes no lasting damage but is a serious warning sign of a potential future stroke.

Use the BE FAST method to quickly identify stroke symptoms — it helps catch more types of strokes early:

• B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
• E – Eyes: Sudden blurred or double vision in one or both eyes
• F – Face Drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side droop?
• A – Arm Weakness: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
• S – Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred, confused, or hard to understand?
• T – Time to Call Emergency: Dial 108 (India) or 911 (USA) immediately. Every second counts.

• Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

1. Stay calm and call for emergency help immediately.
2. Note the time symptoms started — it helps doctors decide treatment.
3. Keep the person safe and comfortable. Do not give food, drink, or medication.
4. If the person is unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position.

After a stroke, the person may need long-term rehabilitation like physical therapy, speech therapy, or medication to prevent recurrence. Lifestyle changes like managing blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol play a major role in recovery and prevention.

Regular checkups and early intervention remain the best defense. Educate your family, and remember: recognizing a stroke early can make all the difference.