STROKE IS ALSO A CONCERN DURING THE PANDEMIC

Fábio Fieni, neurologist at São Bernardo Apart Hospital, provides guidance on precautions to avoid complications from what is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Stroke, commonly known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is one of the main causes of death in Brazil: more than 100,000 people die in the country each year due to stroke. Neurologist Fábio Fieni, medical director of São Bernardo Apart Hospital (SBAH), explains that the disease is a global concern and is linked to various risk factors. "The best way to prevent it is by controlling vascular risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes. It is also important to quit smoking, maintain a proper diet, engage in regular physical activity, and manage stress," he advises. The symptoms of a stroke include sudden and severe headache, weakness or numbness on one side of the body; sudden difficulty speaking or understanding; sudden loss of vision; changes in balance or difficulty walking. These signs should not be ignored, as the lack of appropriate treatment can lead to severe consequences such as difficulty walking and speaking, cognitive loss, and even death. It is worth noting that, following the guidelines of health authorities, emergency and urgent care services continue to operate to ensure timely and adequate treatment. With the COVID-19 pandemic, preventive measures must be reinforced. According to a publication in the scientific journal New England Journal Of Medicine, doctors in the United States have linked the occurrence of stroke in young patients infected with COVID-19. Fieni explains that this trend has been studied, and the protocol for evaluating patients with stroke and COVID-19 is being implemented at SBAH. Excellence in Colatina SBAH is the only hospital in the northwest of the state to achieve the International Angel Certification, which recognizes qualified care in stroke centers. "This initiative started in Germany and recognizes hospitals worldwide. They evaluated our structure and organization, assisted in training all teams. Our capacity was validated, and we were recognized as a center of excellence," the doctor said.