Understanding stroke: Recognize risks and act promptly!

Understanding stroke: Recognize risks and act promptly!

On Friday, March 28, 2025, a lecture on the topic “Stroke is not an unavoidable stroke of fate” will take place at the Technical University of Ilmenau. The speaker is Ilhami Benli, chief physician in the specialist department for vascular and endovascular surgery at the Ilm-Kreis-Kliniken. The event begins at 3:00 p.m. in the Faradaybau, Weimarer Straße 32. Admission to this important information event is 5 euros.

Every year around 250,000 people in Germany are affected by a stroke, with around 30,000 of those affected being under 55 years old. A significant danger is the change in the carotid artery, which occurs in a quarter of cases. Around 30,000 patients suffer from narrowing of the anterior carotid artery caused by plaques. These calcium and fatty deposits can form blood clots that lead to a dangerous blockage.

Consequences of a stroke

The effects of a stroke can cause significant health problems, including temporary paralysis, vision and speech problems, and permanent neurological deficits and even death. That's why early detection and prevention is crucial. Strokes are a leading cause of disability in people over 50, and around 50% of all strokes could be prevented with simple preventive measures such as leading-medicine-guide.com represents.

Early detection particularly supports risk groups. Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and high cholesterol levels. Identification and treatment of these risk factors are crucial for successful prevention. A common cause of stroke is carotid stenosis, a narrowing of the carotid artery caused by plaque buildup that can reduce blood flow to the brain.

Practices and medical measures

Classic symptoms of a stroke are loud gesundheit.gv.at Vision problems, paralysis and speech difficulties. A temporary circulatory disorder known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) can also occur before a stroke and represents a medical emergency.

Doppler sonography is used to examine the arteries supplying the brain, but is usually not a service covered by health insurance companies unless a stroke is suspected. If the carotid stenosis is severe, the doctor may recommend vasodilatation or the insertion of a stent. Regular medical examinations, a healthy lifestyle, exercise and a balanced diet are essential to minimize the risk.

The prognosis for stroke patients is generally good if medical recommendations are strictly followed, especially if treatment takes place in a specialized stroke unit. Therefore, education about preventive measures and early detection of changes in blood vessels is essential to reduce the risk in patients.