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Stroke is one of the leading causes of death globally, with an average of one fatal case every three minutes. So what exactly is a stroke? How can we recognize it? And more importantly, how can we prevent it?

TÓM TẮT BÀI VIẾT

What is a stroke?

A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident, is a serious brain injury that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is suddenly interrupted or reduced. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells can begin to die within minutes, affecting movement, cognition, and potentially leading to death. The longer the delay in emergency treatment, the more brain cells are damaged, increasing the risk of permanent complications such as paralysis, vision loss, speech impairment, or emotional disturbances.

There are two common types of stroke:

Ischemic stroke: The most common type, caused by a blood clot blocking a blood vessel, restricting blood flow to the brain.
Hemorrhagic stroke: Occurs when a weakened or damaged blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain.

Additionally, some people may experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA), often described as a mini-stroke, with symptoms that last only a short time. However, a TIA is a warning sign of a possible major stroke in the near future and should be monitored and addressed early.

What causes stroke?

Stroke can result from a combination of unchangeable risk factors and underlying health conditions.

Non-modifiable risk factors

Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 55. The risk doubles every decade after that.
Gender: Men are at higher risk of stroke, although women also face significant danger.
Family history: If a close relative has had a stroke, your risk is also higher.
Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans, have a higher incidence of stroke.

Health conditions and lifestyle factors

History of stroke: Those who have previously had a stroke are at high risk of recurrence, especially in the first few months.
Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke.
Cardiovascular diseases: Conditions like atrial fibrillation, heart failure, or heart attacks raise the risk of blood clots that may cause a stroke.
High blood pressure: Persistent hypertension damages arteries and may lead to rupture or clot formation.
High cholesterol: Elevated levels of bad cholesterol contribute to atherosclerosis, narrowing blood vessels and restricting blood flow.
Overweight and obesity: Excess weight is associated with diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol – all contributing to stroke risk.
Smoking: Harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke damage blood vessel walls, increase clot formation, and raise stroke risk.
Poor diet and lack of exercise: A sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits (excess fat, salt, alcohol) significantly increase stroke risk.

Other risk factors include stimulant use such as drugs or excessive alcohol, especially among younger individuals. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing chronic conditions, and having regular health checkups are key to effective stroke prevention.

Recognizing stroke symptoms

Facial drooping: One side of the face may become numb or sag; the person may have an uneven smile or difficulty moving facial muscles.
Weakness in arms or legs: Sudden loss of strength or numbness in one side of the body. Ask the person to raise both arms – if one arm drifts downward or cannot be raised, it could be a stroke.
Speech difficulties: Slurred speech, unclear pronunciation, or an inability to repeat simple phrases.
Dizziness or loss of balance: Difficulty walking, coordination problems, or feeling disoriented.
Vision problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or sudden vision loss in one eye.
Severe headache: A sudden, intense headache, possibly accompanied by nausea or vomiting.

In some cases, a person may experience a TIA with similar symptoms that resolve quickly. However, this is a warning of a potential full stroke in the coming days or weeks.

If you observe any of these signs, take the person to a medical facility immediately. The critical window for effective intervention is within the first 60 minutes. Delays increase the risk of death or permanent disability.

Stroke screening at H PLUS International Medical Center – A comprehensive health protection solution

Stroke can strike suddenly and cause severe consequences. Early detection significantly reduces this risk. H PLUS International Medical Center offers specialized stroke screening packages to help identify risks and prevent stroke proactively.

Why choose H PLUS for stroke screening?

Experienced medical team: At H PLUS, patients are examined by highly qualified neurologists from Korea with years of experience in stroke diagnosis and treatment. Our doctors are not only skilled but also committed to providing detailed consultations and prevention strategies tailored to your condition.
State-of-the-art medical equipment: The clinic is equipped with a 3.0 Tesla MRI system, enabling early detection of stroke risk and brain damage. Other equipment includes ECG machines, Doppler ultrasound, and digital X-rays to provide a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health.
Efficient and convenient process: H PLUS implements a streamlined procedure for examination, diagnosis, and consultation – saving time while ensuring accurate results. Screening results are carefully analyzed, allowing doctors to recommend timely prevention or treatment plans.
International-standard service: H PLUS offers a modern, clean, and well-equipped clinical environment with professional, attentive care. Patients receive support throughout their journey – from scheduling and testing to post-examination consultations.
Effective screening – Long-term health protection: Our stroke screening packages are designed for a range of patients, from young individuals with risk factors to older adults, helping to detect hidden health issues early and enabling timely interventions.

Don’t wait until a stroke happens. Be proactive about your health – book your stroke screening appointment at H PLUS today!

Phòng khám Đa khoa Quốc tế H PLUS – H PLUS International Medical Center (H PLUS Hanoi)

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How to Proactively Prevent Stroke