Common and Dangerous Myths About Stroke

Stroke is often referred to by the term "brain attacks". It is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to your brain is disrupted. Strokes are a serious health condition that is well known. However, they have a few myths. These myths can be dangerous, as they may cause patients to have misconceptions and their families to choose the wrong treatment.

This blog post is intended to dispel the most common misconceptions about stroke and promote a proactive approach to lifestyle and health. This can lead to a more informed society and reduce after-stroke complications, as well as improve overall health.

What is a stroke?

Stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular injury, is a form of brain damage that occurs when blood flow is interrupted. The blood supply to an area of the brain is reduced or interrupted, which prevents the brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients. The brain cells start to die when this occurs.

There are two types of strokes.

Ischemic stroke is caused by a blood clot in a vessel that carries blood to the brain.

Hemorrhagic stroke is caused by a blood vessel leak in the brain.

A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or a "mini-stroke", is a short episode of impaired brain blood flow. It can cause temporary neurological symptoms. The symptoms usually disappear spontaneously within a few minutes or hours. It is a sign of a potentially more serious stroke.

Hippocrates was the first to recognize stroke over 2,400 years before. The Greek word for it was apoplexy, which means'struck by violence'. The doctors of that time did not have a good understanding of brain function and strokes.

There are many misconceptions surrounding this medical condition. Let's debunk them one at a time.

Myth No. 1: Strokes are only for the elderly

A stroke is not affected by age. Although strokes are more common in older people, they can also affect young adults or children. It is caused by excessive drinking, smoking and obesity. Diabetes, family history, and diabetes are also factors. It is important to maintain a healthy life style and stay informed to prevent not only a stroke, but also any other diseases.

Myth 2: Strokes are extremely painful

Sometimes, a stroke can go unnoticed. Symptoms of a stroke include difficulty speaking or understanding, weakness, paralysis of the arm, face or leg, double or blurred vision, dizziness and loss of coordination. Sudden, severe headaches can cause vomiting and loss of consciousness.

Myth #3: It is not necessary to treat stroke immediately

Immediate medical attention in the event of a stroke is crucial. The chances of a stroke recovery are increased if you seek medical attention as soon as the symptoms appear. Within three hours of onset, thrombolytic treatment is required. This involves administering medication to dissolve blood clots.

Myth #4: Stroke is rare

Research shows that it is the second most common cause of death in the world. In India, stroke cases have increased alarmingly -- by more than 100 percent. This is a serious problem.

Myth #5: It is difficult to detect a stroke

A stroke can strike at any moment. The onset of stroke can be detected by a simple test called BEFAST (Balance Eyes Face Arm Speech Terrible Headache). After identifying the symptoms, immediate medical attention is required. This will reduce any brain damage.

Myth #6: Strokes can affect the heart

This is a common misconception. When blood flow is disrupted to the brain, a stroke occurs. A clot that escapes from the heart travels to the head and blocks an artery.

Myth #7: You cannot prevent a stroke

Yes, you can. You can. All you have to do is lead an active life and eliminate bad habits such as excessive drinking, smoking and eating unhealthy foods.

Myth 8: Stroke does not run in families

Genes play a part in stroke, high blood pressure, and other conditions. Families with a history of stroke are likely to have shared environments and other risk factors.

You can recover quickly from stroke

It's not true. The recovery from a stroke can take time depending on its type and severity. Even if you feel better after treatment, it doesn't mean that your risk is gone. People who have had a stroke should control the risk factors which caused the stroke, as they tend to return.

Myth No. 10: Mini strokes do not require treatment

Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA) can occur suddenly and disappear quickly. TIA symptoms are similar to stroke symptoms, such as numbness, vision issues, and slurred or slowed speech. However, they usually disappear within 24 hours. It doesn't matter if it disappears quickly - the treatment should still be given. Untreated TIAs can lead to strokes.

Myth 11 - Strokes are always fatal

Strokes are not always fatal. Many stroke survivors are able to recover with the advancements in medical treatment and rehabilitation techniques. To have a positive outcome, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Myth No. 12: Strokes are only found in the brain

Hemorrhagic strokes are caused when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding in or around the head. Both strokes can have serious consequences and need immediate medical attention.

Myth No. 13: Strokes are only a problem for unhealthy people

Strokes are not solely caused by certain lifestyle factors. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and poor eating habits are just a few. Strokes may occur even in otherwise healthy individuals. Strokes can be caused by genetics, medical conditions that are pre-existing, or even stress.

Myth No. 16: Strokes are curable with home remedies

Some people think that alternative therapies or home remedies can effectively treat strokes. It is not the case. Balanced lifestyles can help reduce the risk of stroke. If a stroke occurs, it is important to seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.

Stroke Clinic at Plexus

A stroke can cause serious damage to the body. The Stroke Clinic at Plexus can provide the therapies that are needed to prevent and treat stroke complications.

Stem Cell Therapy - A non-surgical treatment in which stem cells are injected to the body of the patient to replace damaged cells.

Physiotherapy is a treatment that aims to improve the patient's mobility and posture.

Occupational therapy -- It allows patients to be more independent by enhancing their ability to perform daily tasks such as eating, walking, and bathing.

Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy (CRT) - CRT is a structured intervention that aims to improve memory, attention and executive functions.

Speech Therapy -- This therapy helps patients regain communication skills using various techniques, including non-verbal communications.

These treatments are essential for stroke patients to recover and get them on the path to a healthy and happy life.

Contact our team in Bangalore or Hyderabad to learn more about stroke rehab programs and Plexus' Stroke Clinic.

WhatsApp +91 89048 4287

+91 82299 99888 (Bangalore)

A highly regarded neurologist and stem cell specialist, Dr Na’eem Sadiq studied neurology and clinical neurophysiology in London before working with some of England’s and the Middle East’s most prestigious medical institutions. He completed his MBBS