Taking advantage of the golden hour: the key to effective stroke intervention
New Delhi: Stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to a part of your brain is stopped or reduced, causing rapid destruction of brain cells. In stroke care, the term “golden hour” refers to the critical 4.5 hours immediately following the onset of stroke symptoms. It is important to act quickly within this time frame as this can greatly improve the chances of recovery and reduce permanent damage to the brain. A recent study by Boehringer Ingelheim India revealed that only 22 per cent of respondents were aware of the risks and signs of brain stroke, with awareness about treatment options further falling to just 10 per cent.
Golden Hour in Stroke Treatment: Lack of awareness about the risks, symptoms and treatment options of stroke seriously hampers the efficient use of the golden hour. When individuals fail to recognize the early symptoms of a stroke, precious moments of this critical time are lost, reducing the chances of a full recovery and minimizing damage. This 4.5-hour window becomes a race against the clock, where each passing moment can have a huge impact on recovery outcomes. It is like a ticking clock, where timely action can stop or even reverse the damage, just like reviving a withered plant by giving it timely water. Rapid diagnosis using MRI and CT scans during this period allows medical professionals to ascertain the extent and location of the stroke, facilitating a tailored and effective treatment plan. This quick action can dramatically change the patient’s journey, potentially changing from a scenario of enduring long-term losses to regaining substantial, if not complete, quality of life.
The science of stroke care: In simple terms, the sooner the blockage causing the stroke is removed, the less damage is done. One of the primary treatments for stroke is thrombolytic therapy, also known as clot-busting therapy. In this, a medicine is given which dissolves the blood clots that obstruct the blood flow in the brain. This therapy is most effective when started within the golden hour, as it dramatically improves the chances of a complete recovery.
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Another treatment for ischemic stroke is mechanical thrombectomy, where a device is used to physically remove the clot from the blood vessel, and antiplatelet agents, such as aspirin, help prevent further clotting by preventing platelet aggregation. .
Advances in Stroke Care: Recent developments in stroke care are ushering in a new era of advanced interventions and improved outcomes. Among these advances, intraoperative digital subtraction angiography, which is employed for real-time assessment after surgery to ensure procedural success, is prominent. Additionally, in case of a large area of the brain affected due to stroke, osmotic therapy has proven helpful in the management of cerebral edema and intracranial pressure, potentially reducing the serious consequences associated with brain swelling. These advances, along with prompt action during the critical “golden hour”, play a vital role in improving the outlook and enhancing the well-being of individuals affected by stroke.
Recognizing and Responding to a Stroke: The mnemonic BE FAST is an easy way to remember common stroke symptoms and the necessary steps to take. This is for balance (loss of balance), eyes (blurred vision), face (slanted face), arms (arm weakness), speech (speech difficulty), and timing (time to call emergency services). Recognizing these signs early and seeking immediate medical attention within the golden hour can significantly improve outcomes.
The golden hour, lasting 4.5 hours after the onset of stroke symptoms, is a critical period where every second counts. Timely response, accurate diagnosis and immediate medical intervention within this time frame can make a significant difference to the recovery process, potentially saving lives and reducing the long-term effects of stroke. Through education and awareness, we can better prepare ourselves and our communities to act decisively in the face of this medical emergency, ultimately protecting the individuals and those surrounding the person suffering from stroke. Can urge people to stay fast during golden hour. (IANSLife)
