Pakshaghata, paralysis affecting one side of the body, is described as Vata obstructing the channels that carry movement and sensation, closely paralleling what modern medicine recognizes as stroke.

Classical texts distinguish between obstruction from blocked channels and obstruction from depleted tissue allowing Vata to move erratically.

Because Pakshaghata is a serious, sudden-onset condition, classical texts are explicit that it requires immediate physician evaluation.