On 10/7, Dr. Doan Du Manh of the International Cardiovascular and Stroke Center at Phuong Dong General Hospital, reported that a patient arrived for examination in a severe stroke state, experiencing one-sided paralysis. Despite the doctor's urgent recommendation for immediate hospitalization, the patient requested to return home first to "inform his workplace and request leave."
Two days prior, the patient began experiencing facial drooping, blurred vision, and arm weakness. The next day, his legs progressively weakened, preventing normal walking. However, he continued to go to work, convinced that "a stroke involves fainting, unconsciousness, or immobility." It was only when his relatives observed his severe condition that they brought him to the hospital.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain confirmed an acute right hemisphere cerebral infarction. Due to the delayed admission, which extended beyond the critical "golden hour," doctors were limited to supportive treatments, including anticoagulants and medications to enhance cerebral blood flow. The doctor stated, "The patient faces a risk of lifelong disability from the lasting effects."
The patient's medical history revealed several cardiovascular risk factors: frequent late-night work, irregular eating habits, and a sedentary lifestyle. Laboratory tests indicated a metabolic disorder, high blood cholesterol, and signs of pre-diabetes. These factors are known to elevate stroke risk in younger individuals.
A common misconception is that stroke symptoms always involve coma or unconsciousness, leading many to overlook early warning signs. In reality, stroke does not invariably cause fainting. Many individuals remain conscious, can speak, and even manage to work while brain damage progresses rapidly. Delayed hospital admission deprives patients of optimal treatment opportunities and significantly increases the risk of severe, long-term complications.
Stroke incidence among individuals under 45 is rising. This trend is primarily attributed to unhealthy lifestyle choices, including late nights, stress, insufficient physical activity, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and diets rich in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Doctors strongly advise against complacency if sudden symptoms appear, such as facial drooping, numbness or weakness on one side of the body, speech difficulties, slurred speech, blurred vision or vision loss in one eye, severe dizziness, loss of balance, or an unusual headache. Immediate hospital attendance is crucial if any of these symptoms manifest. Emergency treatment within the "golden hour" is vital, significantly enhancing recovery prospects, reducing mortality rates, and minimizing long-term disability.
Prioritizing health over work demands is essential. Regular physical activity, weight management, and routine checks of blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood cholesterol are recommended. Limiting sugary foods, fried items, and processed meals is important. Abstaining from smoking and moderating alcohol consumption are also crucial.
Individuals regularly working night shifts require an appropriate rest regimen. If night work is unavoidable, ensuring 7-8 hours of compensatory sleep daily is crucial. Creating a dark, quiet sleeping environment and limiting exposure to phones and televisions before bed can significantly improve sleep quality.
The doctor advised, "No matter how demanding work becomes, health must remain the top priority, as a healthy body is fundamental to sustaining work efficiency and long-term quality of life."
Thuy Quynh
