Neurologists at Kamineni Hospitals have highlighted the importance of stroke prevention, early recognition and timely treatment, reinforcing the global campaign message, “Every M1nute Counts.” According to the World Stroke Organization, approximately 12 million people experience a stroke worldwide every year. Stroke remains a leading cause of death and long-term disability, making public awareness and prompt access to medical care essential.
Understanding Stroke and Its Risk Factors
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or a blood vessel ruptures, resulting in damage to brain cells. Several factors can increase the risk of stroke, including high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and certain heart conditions. However, people can reduce their risk by managing these conditions through appropriate medical care, regular health check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices.
Recognising Stroke Symptoms and Seeking Immediate Care
Dr. Kamlesh M. Chawda, Senior Consultant Neurologist and Head of the Department of Neurology at Kamineni Hospitals, emphasised that a stroke requires immediate medical attention. Sudden facial drooping, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, difficulty speaking, vision disturbances and loss of balance are important warning signs. Therefore, anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical assessment without delay. Prompt treatment is critical because some patients may qualify for time-sensitive interventions. Even if the symptoms disappear, medical evaluation remains essential.
Lifestyle Changes Can Help Prevent Stroke
Dr. M. Lakshmi Lavanya, Senior Consultant Neurologist at Kamineni Hospitals, highlighted the role of preventive healthcare and lifestyle modifications in reducing stroke risk. According to her, controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol through medical supervision and sustainable lifestyle changes is essential. In addition, adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tobacco can help lower the risk. She also stressed that people with existing risk factors should undergo regular health check-ups and follow their prescribed treatment plans.
Continued Treatment and Rehabilitation Support Recovery
Dr. Nareddy Sandeep Reddy, Consultant Neurologist at Kamineni Hospitals, cautioned patients against stopping prescribed medication simply because they feel better. Recovery does not necessarily eliminate the risk of another stroke. Therefore, patients should make changes to their treatment only after consulting their doctor. He also explained that CT and MRI scans help doctors assess the condition and determine appropriate treatment. Eligible patients with ischaemic stroke may benefit from clot-dissolving medication or mechanical thrombectomy. Furthermore, personalised rehabilitation can help restore mobility, speech and the ability to perform daily activities.
Multidisciplinary Facilities Support Stroke Management
As per the press release, effective stroke care often requires coordination among specialists in emergency medicine, neurology, neuroradiology, neurosurgery, critical care and rehabilitation. Kamineni Hospitals has diagnostic and neurosurgical facilities to support stroke assessment and treatment. These include a 3 Tesla MRI, 128-slice CT scanner, Video EEG, neuro-navigation system, TIVATO ZEISS operating microscope and stereotactic frame. The choice of investigations and treatment depends on each patient’s condition and clinical assessment.