A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, either due to a blocked blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Depending on where the damage occurs, it can lead to paralysis, difficulty speaking, memory loss, or death
How Stroke Leads to Paralysis
The brain controls movement on the opposite side of the body:
Stroke on left side of brain → paralysis on right side
Stroke on right side of brain → paralysis on left side
The severity depends on:
Location of the stroke in the brain
Size of the affected area
Time to treatment
Diagnosis
If stroke is suspected:
CT scan or MRI of the brain: to see if it’s a clot or bleed
Blood tests
ECG, carotid ultrasound, or heart echocardiogram if cause is unknown
Treatment Options
For Ischemic Stroke (clot):
TPA (clot-busting drug) within 4.5 hours
Thrombectomy (mechanical removal of clot) within 6–24 hours in selected patients
For Hemorrhagic Stroke (bleed):
Control bleeding and pressure
Surgery may be needed
Manage blood pressure, prevent complications
Paralysis After Stroke
May include:
Hemiplegia: complete paralysis on one side
Hemiparesis: weakness on one side
May affect:
Face
Arm and hand
Leg
Speech (if facial or tongue muscles involved)