Facial asymmetry, incoherent speech and arm weakness are signs of stroke. Minister of Health Ala Nemerenco pointed out that, unfortunately, many patients stay at home for a few days before someone realizes that they suffered a stroke. It is essential that the onset symptoms of the disease are promptly recognized. In order to prevent serious consequences, a national communication campaign for the recognition of signs of a stroke was launched, carried out in connection with the inauguration of the 13 specialized stroke treatment centers nationwide, IPN reports.
"We have everything and we just need to gain time, to narrow the therapeutic window so that the doctors' intervention is a successful one," said Ala Nemerenco, specifying that the goal set is to reduce the number of patients with a stroke by 10% by 2030.
Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Chisinau, Guido Beltrani, said that stroke is a leading cause of disability and death globally, and many people still remain uninformed about the associated signs and risk factors. “By raising awareness, we aim to help people act quickly at the first symptoms, thus saving lives and preventing the serious long-term health consequences of the disease. Further, in addition to prevention and treatment, we aim to improve the rehabilitation of patients who already suffered from this condition. Thus, in the coming years, rehabilitation services at the level of primary health care, but also at the hospital level will be modernized with the support of the Government of Switzerland. Let's not forget that every second counts in treating the stroke," stated the Swiss diplomat.
Doctor habilitate in medical sciences, Stanislav Groppa said that every hour someone has a stroke in the Republic of Moldova, but in an hour/an hour and a half someone dies. The percentage of patients who survive is quite high, up to 40%, but these subsequently require permanent assistance throughout their lives. And only 35-40% of those who survive return to work. That is why this campaign is extremely important and is meant to combat mortality and disability among the population of the Republic of Moldova.
Institute of Emergency Medicine director Diana Manea said the establishment of these 13 stroke centers was vital for Moldova as they provide not only prompt diagnosis and treatment, but also a multidisciplinary approach to these patients, which will ensure integrated care. By creating these centers, but also by coordinating and monitoring them, "we are committed to facilitating patients' rapid access to diagnosis and treatment, which means that patients, wherever they are in the country, will reach a primary stroke center,” stated Diana Manea.
An ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced and rapid damage to neuronal cells is caused. In such cases, a part of the patient's face appears to be "hanging" or cannot be properly controlled, the arm, often on the same side as the facial asymmetry, becomes weak or numb, and speech becomes incoherent, confused, or the person has trouble finding the right words. Quickly recognizing these symptoms and calling the emergency service (112) are essential to reduce the risk of severe complications.
A simple test is to ask the person to smile. If a corner of the mouth does not rise, this can be a sign of a stroke. Another useful test is to ask the person to raise both arms. If one of them comes down or cannot be lifted, it can be a sign of a stroke. The same is true about trouble speaking.