Dehydration During Karwa Chauth Linked to Stroke, Warns Wockhardt Hospitals

Mumbai: On World Stroke Day, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road highlighted a compelling case emphasizing dehydration as a serious yet often overlooked risk factor for stroke. The hospital shared the story of a 33-year-old woman who suffered a severe stroke after prolonged fasting without water during Karwa Chauth.

The patient had observed a complete fast on October 10, refraining from both food and water. Around 9:30 p.m., just before breaking her fast, she suddenly experienced severe left-sided weakness and collapsed. She was initially treated at another facility, where thrombolysis was performed, but her condition did not improve.

She was then urgently referred to Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road. Upon arrival, imaging revealed a large clot obstructing the right Supraglenoid Internal Carotid Artery (ICA) a major vessel supplying blood to the brain.

Dr Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist and Stroke Specialist, swiftly performed an emergency Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) and Mechanical Thrombectomy in the Cath lab. Within three passes, the clot was removed successfully, and normal blood flow was restored, preventing permanent brain injury.

The patient began showing improvement within hours and regained significant movement by the next day. A detailed medical evaluation confirmed dehydration as the primary cause, with no underlying cardiac or systemic conditions.

Within a week, she was discharged in stable condition and could walk with minimal support. Dr Pavan Pai emphasized, “Dehydration whether due to ritual fasting, intense workouts, or unsupervised fasting can thicken blood and increase the risk of stroke. Maintaining proper hydration and recognizing early warning signs are vital for prevention.”

The case serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of awareness, hydration, and timely medical intervention to reduce stroke-related complications.