Stroke Symptoms & Golden Hour: Why Time Saves Brain

🌟 Introduction

A stroke is often called a "Brain Attack," and just like a heart attack, every second counts. It happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is cut off, depriving brain cells of oxygen.

The concept of the **"Golden Hour"** is the most critical factor in stroke survival and recovery. In this article, Dr. Atul Sharma explains why acting fast can mean the difference between full recovery and permanent disability.

⏳ What is the "Golden Hour"?

Why the first 4.5 hours matter:

The Golden Hour refers to the initial window of time (usually the first **4.5 hours**) after stroke symptoms begin. If a patient reaches a stroke-ready hospital within this time, doctors can administer a **clot-busting injection (tPA)** that dissolves the blockage and restores blood flow. Beyond this window, the risk of complications increases, and some treatments may no longer be an option.

🧠 Why "Time is Brain"

The cost of delay:

Neurologists use the phrase "Time is Brain" for a reason. During a stroke, the brain loses approximately **1.9 million neurons every minute** it goes untreated. Delaying medical help by even 15 minutes can age the brain by several years. Rapid treatment stops this damage, preserving speech, movement, and cognitive function.

🚨 Spotting Symptoms: Remember "BE FAST"

You don't need to be a doctor to recognize a stroke. Use the **BE FAST** acronym to spot the signs immediately:

• B - Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination (dizziness).
• E - Eyes: Sudden blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision in one eye.
• F - Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• A - Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• S - Speech: Is their speech slurred, strange, or are they unable to speak?
• T - Time: If you see ANY of these signs, call for an ambulance immediately. Note the time symptoms started.

❌ What NOT to Do

Avoid these common mistakes:

1. **Do not let them sleep:** Many patients feel tired and want to "sleep it off." This is dangerous as valuable time is lost.
2. **Do not give food or water:** A stroke can affect swallowing muscles, causing choking.
3. **Do not drive yourself:** Call an ambulance so paramedics can start life-saving protocols on the way.

🏥 Advanced Treatments Available

Beyond medication:

For severe strokes involving large clots, medication alone might not be enough. Dr. Atul Sharma specializes in **Mechanical Thrombectomy**, a minimally invasive procedure where a catheter is used to physically remove the clot from the brain vessel. This procedure can sometimes be performed up to 24 hours after onset, but earlier is always better.