ACT FAST: Do not Delay, Recognize Neurological Emergencies Today!

Verified by Dr. Nitin Jagasia – Regional Director – Emergency (Western Region) at Apollo Hospitals & Dr. Girish Nair – Sr. Consultant Neurology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai.

India faces a growing burden of neurological disorders, many of which can escalate into life-threatening emergencies. These conditions require immediate recognition and rapid access to specialized medical care to minimize damage and improve the chances of survival.

Stroke

It is the sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain. Stroke symptoms include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, facial drooping, and severe headache. Remember the acronym FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services). Immediate medical attention is crucial, as treatment options are most effective within a short window called the golden hour following the onset of a stroke.

Seizures or fits

Seizures, another common neurological emergency, are characterized by uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. Symptoms range from convulsions and loss of consciousness to changes in behavior. Prolonged seizures (lasting over 5 minutes), recurrent seizures, or first-time seizures necessitate urgent medical evaluation.

Meningitis

Meningitis, the inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, is caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. High fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, and even seizures are hallmarks of meningitis. Swift recognition and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications or death.

Head injuries

Head injuries, common in India’s traffic-heavy environment, can range from mild to severe. Severe head injuries can cause bleeding inside the skull, brain damage, and even coma. Symptoms like severe headache, vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness, or weakness warrant immediate medical attention.

Loss of consciousness

It is essential to remember that loss of consciousness, regardless of the underlying cause, is always considered a neurological emergency. Conditions like severe infections, drug overdoses, or cardiac irregularities can lead to loss of consciousness, necessitating immediate intervention.

Awareness of neurological emergencies is crucial to prevent long-term complications. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and save lives.

Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai emergency services

As pioneers of Emergency Care in India, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai is a stroke-ready hospital with 24 hours emergency care that guarantees you the highest levels of skill, expertise and infrastructure. Our AI enabled stroke protocol reduces treatment time by increasing accuracy of diagnoses and treatment decision.

We are proud to have the best ER team on board, a fully equipped ER facility & an easy to remember emergency number –1066, ambulances that are well equipped and manned by trained personnel called ‘Hospital on Wheels’. The ambulance provides free pick up and drop services within a 30 kms radius in the city. 

Call 1066 in case of an emergency.

Consult our experts, Dr. Nitin Jagasia – Regional Director – Emergency (Western Region) at Apollo Hospitals & Dr. Girish Nair – Sr. Consultant Neurology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai.

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.