EVERY second counts when it comes to a stroke.
Globally, stroke is the second leading cause of death. In Malaysia, six cases are reported every hour and 52,000 cases annually according to the Malaysia Stroke Council and Malaysia Society of Neurosciences.
The first 72 hours after a stroke are critical for recovery. It can determine whether a person recovers fully or faces long-term disability, says Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City consultant emergency medicine Dr Aaron Lai Kuo Huo.
When a stroke strikes, the brain is deprived of oxygen, and damage starts immediately. Quick interventions, like clot-busting drugs or thrombectomy, can save lives and preserve brain function, but these must happen fast, says Dr Lai.
Studies show that patients receiving thrombolytic therapy within the first 4.5 hours from the onset of stroke symptoms have a much higher chance of functional recovery .
This “golden hour” dramatically improves the likelihood of a full recovery.
A multidisciplinary team ensures immediate and effective treatment once a stroke patient arrives at the hospital.
During this time the focus is on preventing complications like secondary strokes or brain swelling, explains Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City consultant neurologist Dr Mohamad Imran Idris.
“After treatments such as thrombolysis or thrombectomy, the patient is closely monitored, with brain scans repeated within the first 24 hours to check for bleeding or other complications.”
During this time, key health factors such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and hydration are stabilised, as they play a pivotal role in reducing brain damage.
Early rehabilitation is also vital. The sooner therapy can begin, usually within 48 to 72 hours, the better the patient’s chances of regaining mobility and independence, says Dr Mohamad Imran.
“Whether regaining the ability to walk, swallow, or speak, starting therapy as soon as the patient is stable maximises their chances of regaining independence.”
Strokes are increasingly affecting younger people in Malaysia, largely due to lifestyle factors like poor diet, obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity.
“We’re seeing more metabolic syndromes in younger people, and these are major contributors to strokes,” says Dr Lai.
Younger patients often fail to recognise early symptoms or delay seeking treatment, leading to worse outcomes.
Awareness of early symptoms and the importance of post-stroke care is more critical than ever.
Dr Mohamad Imran adds that it’s not just about saving lives; it’s about preserving quality of life.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
