Stroke: Early detection leads to better survival and reduces the risk of paralysis.
1.
Types:
Ischemic Stroke vs. Hemorrhagic Stroke
Ischemic
Stroke: Up to 80% of cases, caused by blood clots blocking
blood flow to the brain.
Hemorrhagic
Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel ruptures, causing blood to compress brain
tissue. This is a serious condition.
Transient
Ischemic Attack (TIA): A "warning sign." Symptoms similar to a stroke
but resolve on their own within 24 hours. Don't
underestimate it, as a real stroke can occur at any time.
2.
Who
is at Risk?
Check
yourself and your loved ones for these factors:
Pre-existing
conditions: High blood pressure (number 1 risk factor),
diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease.
Risk
behaviors: Smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, obesity.
Other
factors: Older age (especially 40 years and older), family
history of stroke.
3.
Warning
Signs "BE FAST" (If you experience even one, seek immediate medical
attention!)
Remember
this! If you experience these symptoms "suddenly":
B
- Balance: Dizziness, unsteadiness, difficulty maintaining balance.
E
- Eyes: Blurred vision, blindness in one eye, double vision.
F
- Face: Crooked mouth, facial asymmetry, drooping corner of the mouth when
smiling.
A
- Arm: Weakness or inability to lift one side of the body (arm or leg).
S
- Speech: Slurred speech, stiff tongue, inability to speak, or confusion.
T
- Time: Time is of the essence! Rush the patient to the hospital immediately
(within 4.5 hours for the best treatment outcome).
4.
Prevention:
Start with yourself.
Control
and Reduce Risk: Control blood pressure (target <140/90
mmHg), blood sugar, and cholesterol levels within normal ranges.
Move
Your Body Often: Exercise regularly, at least 150 minutes
per week (e.g., brisk walking for 30 minutes daily).
Choose
Healthy Foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (Mediterranean
Diet), and reduce salt and processed foods.
Quit
Smoking and Alcohol: To maintain healthy blood vessels.
Annual
health check-ups: To assess risk early
To
reduce the severity of stroke. Pakse International Hospital prioritizes the
treatment of patients facing stroke, emphasizing the need for urgent care.

