Stroke is an acute medical emergency that often presents with obvious symptoms such as weakness on one side of the body, facial drooping, and slurred speech. Doctors emphasize that if identified as an "ischemic stroke," treatment should begin within 4.5 hours to reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Dr. Hsu Szu-Kai, a neurosurgeon at Cathay General Hospital, explained that stroke symptoms vary depending on the damaged brain area, including limb weakness, speech difficulties, vision loss, and unsteady gait. If a person cannot complete the &ldquoraise hands, smile, say hello&rdquo test, it could be a warning sign of stroke. Note the time of onset and call 119 immediately.Stroke is a condition that occurs suddenly. (Image/Heho Health)

Strokes are categorized into &ldquohemorrhagic&rdquo and &ldquoischemic,&rdquo with the latter accounting for about 70%. Ischemic strokes are mainly caused by blood clots or atherosclerosis leading to blocked brain vessels. Administering thrombolytics within 4.5 hours or performing mechanical thrombectomy within 24 hours can potentially reverse the damage. Missing the golden window could result in irreversible brain damage, affecting future function and quality of life.

Dr. Hsu reminds: &ldquoTime is brain!&rdquo urging the public to recognize stroke symptoms and seek prompt treatment.Dr. Hsu Ssu-Kai, Attending Physician of Neurosurgery at Cathay General Hospital (Image/Heho Health)