Timely recognition of symptoms and immediate transfer to the hospital can make the difference between complete recovery and permanent lesions.

Recognition of Symptoms: The HOPA Rule

“In English -speaking countries, a widespread information campaign is based on the word fast (face, arms, speech, time), which has also been adapted to Greek as a HOPA. (Hand, speech, face, ambulance). This simple rule helps in timely identifying the basic symptoms:

• Hand: Sudden weakness in one hand or leg
• Speech: Difficulty in joint or curious way of speaking
• Face: Asymmetric smile or twisted mouth
• Ambulance: Instant call for medical assistance

In addition to the above, other less common symptoms may include sudden changes in the field of vision, sudden diplopia, a strong unprecedented headache or sudden vertigo with concomitant walking volatility. ” K. Alkis Psychogios Neurologist, Director of MEF of Vascular Strokes Metropolitan HospitalDoctor of University of Athens.

Time is brain: the importance of immediate treatment

The phrase “Time is brain” reflects the importance of time in the treatment of stroke. Studies show that for every minute that passes without treatment, about two million neurons are lost. Therefore, the faster restored brain hemorrhage, the better the prognosis for the patient.

Therapeutic approaches: thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy

“The two main treatments that are applied today are intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy.

• Intravenous thrombolysis: Administration of drugs aimed at dissolving the thrombus and repair normal blood flow. This treatment is applied up to 4.5 hours from the onset of symptoms.

• Mechanical thrombectomy: A process in which a thin catheter is inserted through the femoral artery and reaches the vessels of the brain, removing the thrombus. It can be implemented up to 6 hours after the episode, with the possibility of expanding up to 24 hours to specialized centers with special imaging techniques (CT perfusion) that can depict real -time the Penumbra area and the already lost area (ischemic).

The importance of specialized centers

“Informing the public and rapid action is vital to reducing the effects of a stroke. Knowledge of the HOPA rule And timely reaction can save lives and prevent serious disabilities.

In order to effectively treat the stroke, it is crucial for the patient to be transferred immediately to hospitals with appropriate infrastructure and specialized staff. Units of increased care of patients with stroke (Stroke Units) with advanced visualization and specialized therapies significantly increase the chances of complete rehabilitation, ”concludes Mr. Psychogios.

*The Stroke Unit of the Stroke Unit of Metropolitan Hospital, It is the first certified brain unit in Greece to receive patients 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It consists of specialized neurologists and invasive neuroaccinologist providing high quality health services. It applies international medical protocols, while Certified ESO STROKE UNIT shows that the Metropolitan Hospital Special Neurologists’ team is first in Greece and among Europe.