Milmedika

In recent decades, there has been a significant increase in cases of carotid artery disease, particularly among patients under 50 years old. This trend is closely linked to the rise in risk factors across the population.

Risk factors

Anyone can experience a stroke, but the risk increases when certain factors are present, such as:

• Gender (more common in men)
• Age (older adults are at higher risk)
• Genetics (family history of stroke or cardiovascular disease)
• High blood pressure, heart arrhythmias (such as atrial fibrillation), diabetes, and high cholesterol levels
• Atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries and aneurysms
• Smoking, alcohol use, obesity, lack of physical activity, and drug use

Recognizing stroke symptoms

Timely recognition of stroke symptoms is crucial for saving lives. Simple tests like FAST or GROM are used for quick evaluation:

• Smile: One side of the mouth stays drooping.
• Speak: Speech is unclear, or the person cannot repeat a sentence.
• Raise your arms: One arm drops or is weaker than the other.
• Stick out your tongue: The tongue tilts to one side.

If you notice any of these signs, immediately call for help—every minute counts!

FAST and GROM tests

The FAST test is internationally recognized for identifying stroke:

• F (Face): One side of the face is drooping or asymmetrical.
• A (Arms): The person cannot raise both arms.
• S (Speech): Speech is slurred or unclear.
• T (Time): Time is critical—call emergency services immediately!

The GROM test is a local version of FAST:

• G (Govor): Unclear speech.
• R (Ruke): One arm is weak and "falls."
• O (Oduzetost): Facial asymmetry.
• M (Minute): Time to call emergency services.

Stroke prevention

Managing risk factors is essential for preventing stroke. Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, treating high blood pressure and cholesterol, and regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk. In addition, it is recommended to:

• Have regular lab tests (glucose, LDL, HDL).
• Undergo an ultrasound examination (Duplex scan) of the carotid arteries.
• Use the HeartScore calculator to assess cardiovascular risk.

World Stroke Day, marked each year on October 29, raises awareness about prevention and the importance of recognizing symptoms early. Managing risk factors and responding quickly can significantly reduce the impact and save lives.

Act fast – every minute counts!