It’s a normal day. You’re having tea, scrolling through your phone, chatting with a friend. Suddenly, they stop mid-sentence. Their face droops slightly. You ask what’s wrong, but their words don’t make sense. In that moment, every second matters. You could be witnessing a stroke, and knowing the warning signs might save their life.
Strokes don’t wait for the “right” time or place. They strike without warning, often affecting people who never thought they were at risk. Understanding the symptoms and how to act quickly can make a massive difference between life and death, or full recovery and permanent disability.
A stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted. This can happen in two major ways: a clot blocks a blood vessel (ischaemic stroke), or a vessel bursts and causes bleeding in the brain (haemorrhagic stroke).
Without oxygen and nutrients from the blood, brain cells begin to die within minutes. This is why strokes are considered emergencies. The longer the brain goes without blood flow, the greater the damage.
There’s also something called a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or mini-stroke. It’s like a stroke, but the blockage is temporary. TIAs are often warning signs of a full stroke in the near future. Ignoring them is dangerous.
Stroke symptoms often come on suddenly and can vary depending on the part of the brain affected. The most well-known method to recognise a stroke is the F.A.S.T acronym:
F - Face: One side of the face may droop. Ask the person to smile.
A - Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
S - Speech: Slurred or strange speech is a red flag.
T - Time: If you notice any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
Other common symptoms include:
Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg—especially on one side
Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Dizziness or loss of balance and coordination
Sudden, intense headache with no known cause
Difficulty walking or confusion
These signs can last for a few minutes or persist longer. In either case, do not ignore them.
If you suspect a stroke, act immediately. Call emergency services without delay. The person should lie down with their head slightly raised. Avoid giving them food, drink, or medication unless instructed by a medical professional.
Stay calm and speak reassuringly. Time is critical. The sooner the person receives medical attention, the higher the chance of survival and recovery.
Paramedics will often perform a quick neurological assessment and take the person for a brain scan. This helps determine the type of stroke and guides treatment.
Yes. Treatment is most effective when started within the first few hours of symptom onset. For ischaemic strokes, which make up about 85% of all strokes, doctors may use a clot-busting medication to dissolve the blockage.
One such medication is Alteplase, known by its brand name Actilyse. It must be given within 3 to 4.5 hours of the first signs. The sooner it’s administered, the better the outcome.
This is why knowing and acting on stroke symptoms immediately is so important. Every minute saved can reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Strokes can affect anyone, but some people are more vulnerable. Key risk factors include:
High blood pressure (the leading cause)
Diabetes
Smoking
High cholesterol
Heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation
Obesity or a sedentary lifestyle
Excessive alcohol use
A history of stroke or TIA
Family history of stroke
While not all strokes are preventable, many can be avoided through lifestyle changes and medical management. Here are some effective ways to lower your risk:
Control your blood pressure: Keep it within a healthy range.
Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Stop smoking: Tobacco greatly increases stroke risk.
Limit alcohol: Heavy drinking raises blood pressure.
Manage chronic conditions: Take medicines as prescribed and follow up with your doctor.
Recovery after a stroke can vary widely. Some people regain full function quickly, while others may need long-term support. Rehabilitation often includes:
Physical therapy to improve strength and mobility
Speech therapy if language or swallowing was affected
Occupational therapy to relearn daily activities
Counselling or mental health support for depression or anxiety
Rehabilitation should begin as soon as possible. The brain is incredibly adaptable, and with the right care, many stroke survivors make impressive recoveries.
Support from family and community is vital. It’s a journey that takes patience, effort, and positivity.
Stroke still remains one of the leading causes of death and disability across the globe. Despite this, many people don’t know how to identify the signs, or they wait too long to respond.
Raising awareness saves lives. Talk to your loved ones about the F.A.S.T. test. Post it in your home or workplace. Teach your children. Share reliable information.
A few moments of education could mean the difference between life and loss for someone you love.
Strokes can happen without warning, but they don’t have to end in tragedy. With quick recognition, prompt action, and the right treatment, many lives can be saved and transformed.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. And always remember—act F.A.S.T.
Advik Singh
