Stroke screening: A Proactive approach to safeguarding health

Stroke is a perilous medical condition that can result in mortality or severe sequelae, significantly impacting quality of life. Stroke screening constitutes a critical approach to health protection, facilitating the early detection of risk factors and the prevention of serious complications. 

Causes of stroke

Stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted by an obstruction (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Consequently, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, leading to damage and cell death within a short period.

Common causes of stroke include:

• Hypertension: The leading risk factor contributing to blood vessel damage.
• Diabetes Mellitus: Increases the risk of atherosclerosis.
• Hypercholesterolemia: Contributes to the obstruction of blood vessels.
• Unhealthy Lifestyle: Smoking, physical inactivity, and a diet high in salt and sugar.

Stroke symptoms typically manifest abruptly and may include:

• Numbness or weakness on one side of the body.
• Difficulty speaking or loss of speech.
• Loss of balance, dizziness.
• Severe headache with no identifiable cause.

Benefits of stroke screening

In many instances, stroke does not present with clear prodromal symptoms. Screening facilitates the early identification of risk factors and timely intervention, thereby reducing the likelihood of stroke occurrence. Specific rationales for undergoing stroke screening include:

• Detection of underlying risk factors: Such as vascular stenosis, hypertension, or cardiac arrhythmias.
• Prediction of stroke risk: Based on laboratory findings and diagnostic imaging.
• Development of preventive protocols: Including lifestyle modifications, medication use, or medical interventions.

Tests

Contemporary medical technology offers several advanced methods for effective stroke screening:

• Doppler Ultrasound of Blood Vessels: Assesses blood flow in major arteries, detecting vascular stenosis or occlusion.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Identifies brain lesions resulting from ischemia or hemorrhage.
• Computed Tomography (CT Scan): Determines the affected brain regions and the extent of damage.
• Blood Tests: Evaluate cholesterol, blood glucose, and other cardiovascular risk-related indices.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Examines cardiac activity to detect issues that may contribute to blood clot formation.

Who should get a stroke screening?

Screening is not only for high-risk people but can also be applied to everyone to ensure comprehensive health:

• Elderly people: People aged 55 and over are at higher risk of stroke.
• People with a family history of stroke or cardiovascular disease.
• People with underlying medical conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

Choosing a reputable medical facility with a team of specialized doctors and modern equipment is an important factor to ensure accurate results. Some hospitals and specialized centers in Vietnam provide high-quality stroke screening services with same-day results, helping you avoid long waiting times.

Stroke screening is considered an essential factor to protect brain health and maintain a healthy life. Don’t let the risks silently affect you, be proactive in checking and preventing today. Screening is not only an act of personal health care but also a long-term investment in the happiness of you and your family.