Young, slim and active but still at risk? Neurologist explains what people get wrong about stroke

Does being young, slim and physically active gurantee a protection against a stroke? Well, as per Hyderabad-based neurologist, Dr Sudhir Kumar, it is one of the most common misconception. He also shared 10 important points about stroke that everyone ought to know. In a post on X, he pointed out how to recognise stroke symptoms and why immediate medical care is needed and what mistakes one must avoid.

BE FAST approach

Dr Sudhir Kumar recommends the BE FAST approach to recognise a possible stroke:

- B for balance: Sudden loss of balance.


- E for eyes: Sudden changes in vision.

- F for face: Facial drooping.

- A for arms: Weakness in an arm or leg.

- S for speech: Difficulty speaking.

- T for time: Seek emergency medical help immediately.

The expert is his post emphasised how every minute counts during a stroke. As per him, brain cells are lost rapidly during a stroke. As soon as symptoms begin, it should be noted and an ambulance should be called.

Why young, healthy people are not immune

Dr Sudhir Kumar, in his post, shared that people in their 20s, 30s and 40s can also be affected by stroke. He further warns that high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and heart conditions increases the risk of a stroke even if they look healthy.

Can stroke be prevented?

Making regular checks, consistent control are important even when obvious symptoms are not present. The doctor noted that up to 80% of the strokes may be prevented by controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, avoiding tobacco, exercising regularly, maintaining healthy weight and eating a balanced diet.

Why stroke symptoms should never be ignored

The doctor shared that "stroke is treatable". He added that timing matters. He added that clot-busting medicines can help certain patients with an ischaemic stroke. "A stroke is treatable, but time matters", adviced Dr Sudhir Kumar.

Even if the symptoms "resolve completely", it needs urgent assessment because a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or warning stroke may signal the risk of a serious stroke .

What not to do?

The Apollo doctor also cautioned against giving food, water or aspirin to someone during a "suspected stroke." He warned that swallowing maybe impaired and giving aspirin may worsen bleeding in case of a haemorrhagic stroke.

Myths not to believe in

He wrapped up the post by sharing a few myths about strokes that should not be believed.

- Stroke happens only to older people.

- If symptoms disappear, everything is fine.

- A normal BP reading today means I cannot have a stroke.

- A stroke is always fatal or untreatable.