What can be a consequence of delayed treatment in stroke patients?

Delayed treatment in stroke patients can lead to a worsened neurological outcome because the brain tissue is continuously deprived of oxygen and nutrients during a stroke. When a stroke occurs, brain cells begin to die rapidly within minutes due to the disruption of blood flow. The longer the delay in restoring blood flow or administering appropriate treatment, the greater the extent of brain damage that can occur. This can result in increased disability, loss of function, and poor recovery prospects for the patient. Timely medical intervention, such as clot-dissolving medications or surgical procedures, significantly improves the chances of preserving brain function and minimizing long-term effects.

The other options, while they may be concerns in the overall context of patient care and management, are less directly tied to the immediate consequences of delayed stroke treatment. For instance, while infections can complicate a patient's overall condition, they are not an immediate consequence of stroke neglect. Similarly, reduced pain awareness and allergic reactions are not directly relevant to the acute impact of timely intervention in stroke management.