Published by the Indian Heart Association
Reviewed by the Physician Team of Indian Heart Association
Stroke in Indians – Warning Signs, Types, and Recovery
What You’ll Learn in This Article
- How do I know if I’m having a stroke?
- Types of Stroke
- Treating Ischemic Stroke
- Treating Hemorrhagic Stroke
- Stroke Recovery
How do I know if I’m having a stroke?
Stroke in Indians is rising due to lifestyle diseases. Early symptoms include difficulty speaking, weakness or numbness on one side, and confusion. Use the FAST test to identify a possible stroke:
- F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- A – Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
- S – Speech: Ask them to say a sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- T – Time: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.
Other signs include vision problems, balance issues, severe headache, and dizziness. Stroke is a medical emergency — every second matters.
Types of Stroke in Indians
There are two primary types of stroke:
1. Ischemic Stroke
The most common type of stroke in Indians, it occurs when a clot blocks blood flow to the brain. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or “mini-stroke,” is a warning sign and requires immediate attention. Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, obesity, smoking, and atrial fibrillation.
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke
This occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the brain. Risk factors include uncontrolled high blood pressure, aneurysms, bleeding disorders, blood thinners, and AVMs.
Treating Ischemic Stroke
Rapid treatment improves outcomes. Medications like tPA can dissolve clots if given within 3 to 4.5 hours. In some cases, a thrombectomy (mechanical clot removal) may be done within 24 hours. Ongoing care includes blood thinners, antiplatelets, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
Treating Hemorrhagic Stroke
Treatment focuses on controlling bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain. This may include:
- Reversing blood thinners
- Aneurysm clipping or coil embolization
- Craniotomy to remove pooled blood
- Medication to reduce swelling or drain fluid
Stroke Recovery
Recovery depends on severity and support. It may involve:
- Speech therapy – for language and swallowing
- Physical therapy – to regain strength and balance
- Occupational therapy – to resume daily activities
- Mental health support – for emotional well-being
Recovery may take weeks to months. Some patients benefit from inpatient rehab or day care support.
The Indian Heart Association urges families to learn the warning signs of stroke in Indians and act fast. Awareness and rapid response save lives.
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🔗 For expert content, visit the Harvard Health Stroke Center.