One in four people is at risk of suffering a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), claiming more than 6.6 million lives every year. Clinica Ricardo Palma is the only private institution certified by the World Stroke Organization – WSO, as a center trained to receive patients with cerebrovascular disease. We have the medical technology and high-level professionals that guarantee a timely diagnosis and treatment 24 hours a day. Dr. Manuel Moquillaza, endovascular neurologist, member of the staff of the Stroke and Neurointerventional Unit, and coordinator of the Neurology Service of our clinic, explains relevant aspects of this condition.

• Stroke can be prevented. Seventy-five percent of stroke cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, thus controlling the neurovascular risk factors that can cause it, such as: arterial hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, alcoholism, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, cardiovascular diseases, as well as drug use.
• The first hours after symptoms become evident are decisive. The sooner the stroke is recognized and treated, the lesser the neurological sequelae and the greater the degree of functional independence of the patient. Some of the symptoms to take into account are: facial asymmetry (one side of the face drooping), dysarthria (difficulty articulating words) and hemiparesis (a condition that affects the strength of half of the body on the same side).
• It does not always leave sequelae. Neurological sequelae are directly proportional to the speed at which the emergency is treated. Per minute of stroke, 2 million neurons die. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to act quickly as soon as symptoms become evident.
• Stroke occurs at any age. Although stroke tends to be more frequent in older adults, it can also be seen in newborns, children, adolescents and adults. In recent years, the number of people aged 35 years and older with stroke has increased considerably due to unhealthy habits and low physical activity.
• Permanent stress is a triggering factor for stroke. Stress increases the level of cortisol in the blood. This hormone contributes to elevated blood pressure, the main modifiable risk factor for developing a stroke.
• Rehabilitation is effective. The sooner the rehabilitation process is started, the greater the patient’s recovery. During the first three months is where the greatest results can be observed, but it is suggested that physical therapy be prolonged, in order to achieve maximum recovery for the patient.
• The chances of suffering a second stroke are high. Stroke can recur if not diagnosed and treated correctly, especially in the first month.

Dr. Manuel Moquillaza, endovascular neurologist, member of the staff of the Stroke and Neurointerventional Unit, and coordinator of the Neurology Service at Clínica Ricardo Palma