The COVID-19 pandemic is changing patient care at hospitals all over the world, but a group of leading surgeons wants to make sure people aren’t ignoring stroke symptoms due to fears over getting the virus.
The Get Ahead of Stroke public education campaign, formed in 2016 by the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery (SNIS), urged the public to take any potential symptoms seriously, even during this unusual moment in time.
“Stroke does not respect our concerns about coronavirus,” Donald Frei, MD, past president of the SNIS, said in a statement. “Even in this time of uncertainty, it is critical to pay attention to any symptoms of stroke and to call 911 right away. When getting stroke treatment, know that time is brain—meaning that every minute of delay before a stroke patient receives the care they need reduces their chance at a full recovery.”
The campaign emphasized that paying close attention to stroke symptoms—including facial drooping, arm weakness and difficulties with speech—is especially important if the person has already been exposed to COVID-19 or the flu. Such illnesses increase a person’s odd of having a stroke.
“We know that severe stroke treatments like neuroendovascular surgery can save lives and reduce disability, but only if patients get to us in time,” Frei added. “Even during this pandemic, we still need to overreact to stroke symptoms and always dial 9-1-1. If we don't, we risk losing even more lives.”
Michael has more than 16 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.