Aster Doctors Encourage Early Identification of Stroke Symptoms to Act Fast and Save Lives

On occasion of World Stroke Day, doctors from Aster Hospitals have called upon the people of UAE to learn to identify the early symptoms of stroke which can enable them to call for urgent medical help and save lives. As per reports, stroke has been the second leading cause of disability, with 1 in every 6 deaths from cardiovascular diseases being caused by stroke.[2] In UAE, 50% of the stroke patients are below the age of 45 years, as compared to the global average, where 80 per cent of stroke patients are above the age of 65 years.1

"When stroke occurs, every second counts. Almost 85% of stroke cases are caused by blocked blood vessels and for every minute the vessel remains blocked 1.9 million neurons die. The golden hour of 60 minutes, from occurrence to treatment is essential to avoid brain damage, disability and fatal outcome. By being aware of the different signs and symptoms of occurrence of stroke, either in self or in people around them, one can call for emergency medical help in time," said Dr. Naseem Palakkuzhiyil, Neurology (Specialist), Aster Hospital, Al Qusais.

"The occurrence of stroke in such a younger age group is a major worry. If not treated in time within the golden hour, it can cause disabilities like paralysis, sensory impairment, speech problems among others and death. The good news is that, if we are following good health habits like regular exercise, consume healthy foods and avoid stress, serious complications can be avoided if treated within the golden hour," said Dr. Chelladurai Pandian Hariharan, Neurosurgery (Specialist), Aster Hospital, Al Qusais.

In UAE, the major factors leading to stroke are sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, high consumption of junk food, high cholesterol and smoking. The high incidence of stroke cases at a comparatively younger age has been a worry for medical professionals. Aster Hospital’s Center of Excellence in Neuroscience has been providing high-end neurological care to patients in UAE.