Intervention in the first 4.5 hours is important in stroke

Stating that 12 million people are diagnosed with stroke every year in the world and 7 million people die due to stroke, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Büyükkoyuncu Pekel from the Department of Neurology at Yüksek İhtisas Training and Research Hospital said that knowing the risk factors can significantly reduce the risk of stroke.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Büyükkoyuncu Pekel from the Department of Neurology at Yüksek İhtisas Training and Research Hospital made statements within the framework of World Stroke Day. The Ministry of Health has set this year's theme as “Stroke Does Not Wait: Act Early!”, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pekel pointed out that early intervention in stroke saves lives.

“The first 4.5 hours are very important”

Stating that stroke is a preventable and treatable disease, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pekel said, “When sudden onset of unilateral weakness or numbness in the arms and legs, difficulty and impaired speech, facial asymmetry, double vision, imbalance and changes in the level of consciousness are observed, it should be considered that there may be signs of stroke and the appropriate treatment center should be applied as soon as possible. Loss of time is a loss of brain, so the concept of time is important in early diagnosis. Quality of life and precious memories can be saved with the correct use of time in stroke patients. Thanks to the interventions made within the first 4.5 hours, it has been observed that the patient is less exposed to the effects of the disease and the rate of disability and death due to this disease has decreased.”

“90 percent preventable”

Pointing out that the most important risk factors in the occurrence of stroke are unhealthy diet, insufficient physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pekel said, “Due to the negative effects of these risk factors, conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar and obesity occur in people, which increase the risk of stroke development. Studies show that stroke can be prevented by 90 percent with small lifestyle changes.”

“Do physical activity”

Listing the things to be done to reduce the risk of stroke, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pekel said, “Tobacco and alcohol use should be avoided and exposure to cigarette smoke should be avoided. Physical activity should be done for at least 30 minutes a day. Fat, sugar and salt should be reduced in the diet. Plenty of vegetables should be consumed. In addition, we should consult our doctor to find out our blood pressure, blood fats, blood sugar and weight and follow our doctor's recommendations. We should also encourage our family members to make healthy lifestyle changes.”