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Nithin Kamath's life-saving advice for anyone under 50: 'Nothing will happen to me' is a dangerous myth

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Zerodha co-founder and CEO Nithin Kamath has issued a public health warning aimed at people under 50 after describing his own stroke experience and urging immediate medical attention when warning signs appear. Kamath, 44, said he delayed seeking care when he first felt symptoms last January and later learned that acting within the so-called “golden hour” can materially affect outcomes. In a post shared on X, Kamath said his “biggest mistake” was not going to the hospital immediately and that people often dismiss early symptoms as minor or temporary. He described his recovery from facial drooping and difficulty reading and writing, and stressed that time is critical when treating stroke.


Nithin Kamath’s stroke warning: Don’t sleep it off, act within 4.5 hours




In a social media post, Nithin Kamath recounted that he experienced a mild stroke in January 2024 and initially thought he could “sleep it off.” He later sought medical care and described the episode as “out of the blue.” Kamath wrote that had he gone to the hospital within the accepted treatment window often described as up to 4.5 hours for certain interventions, the outcome could have been better. He told followers that his recovery included overcoming facial droop and temporary difficulty with reading and writing, and urged others not to ignore similar warning signs.




Nithin Kamath’s urgent call to recognise the ‘Golden Hour’



Kamath emphasised the importance of the treatment window for acute ischemic stroke. Clinicians commonly refer to the early hours after onset as the critical period when interventions such as thrombolytic therapy can be most effective. He advised anyone experiencing sudden neurological symptoms, including facial weakness, slurred speech, arm weakness or sudden visual disturbance, to seek immediate hospital care rather than waiting. Kamath’s message reiterated the principle “time is brain,” a medical shorthand underscoring that treatment delays increase the risk of permanent impairment.


Nithin Kamath’s wake-up call: Stroke cases in 30-50s are increasing



Kamath warned that strokes are occurring increasingly among people aged 30–50 and said the share of strokes in that age group has grown in recent years. He referred to recent trends suggesting that up to nearly 30% of strokes are now being seen in younger adults in some datasets. His post and media coverage have highlighted concerns among clinicians and public-health commentators about rising stroke incidence in younger populations, which is often linked to factors such as stress, sleep disruption, dehydration and lifestyle pressures.


Personal risk factors mentioned by Nithin Kamath



Kamath has previously said his own stroke followed a period of intense stress and disrupted routines after the death of his father. In prior public comments, he linked his episode to a combination of stress, lack of sleep, dehydration and over-exertion. He has described adjusting his lifestyle and following medical guidance during recovery. Kamath remains publicly active while noting that recovery is ongoing.


Public reaction and social media response



Kamath’s post drew responses from followers sharing similar experiences and expressing support. Several users recounted missed “golden hour” opportunities in relatives and friends, while others reiterated the practical value of his warning. The message sparked broader discussion online about recognising stroke symptoms early and ensuring prompt medical transport to facilities equipped to provide acute stroke care.
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