On the occasion of World Stroke Day, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, has brought forward a critical real-life case that underscores the underestimated danger of dehydration as a major risk factor for stroke. Dr. Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist and Stroke Specialist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road shared the case of a 33-year-old woman who suffered a debilitating stroke after prolonged fasting during Karwa Chauth.
On October 10, the patient had observed a full-day fast without water. At around 9:30 pm, moments before breaking her fast, she suddenly developed severe left-sided weakness and collapsed. She was initially taken to another hospital and administered thrombolysis; however, her condition did not improve. She was then urgently transferred to Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, where imaging revealed a massive clot completely blocking the right Supraclinoid Internal Carotid Artery (ICA)—a critical vessel supplying the brain’s right hemisphere.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Dr. Pai immediately intervened. At 7:00 AM, the patient was taken to the Cath lab for an emergency Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) with Mechanical Thrombectomy. In three precise passes, the clot was successfully removed, restoring full blood flow by 8:45 am. The rapid recanalization prevented permanent brain damage, demonstrating the life-saving importance of timely neuro-interventional procedures.
Following the procedure, the patient showed remarkable recovery. Her left-side motor strength began improving within hours, and by the next day, she regained significant movement. A complete cardiac and systemic evaluation revealed no other risk factors, confirming dehydration as the primary cause of her stroke. Within a week, she was discharged, able to walk with support.
Commenting on the case, Dr. Pavan Pai stated, “Dehydration in any form—whether from ritual fasting, strenuous exercise without hydration, or unsupervised intermittent fasting—can thicken the blood and promote clot formation, leading to stroke. Staying hydrated and recognizing early symptoms are vital. This case reinforces how timely intervention with mechanical thrombectomy can make the difference between life-long disability and full recovery.”
This case serves as a strong reminder of the need for awareness, hydration, and timely medical response to combat stroke risk.
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