Strokes happen when blood flow to a part of the brain is suddenly disrupted, which often strikes without warning.
With its sudden and severe impact, a stroke can lead to permanent loss of essential body functions. This makes it crucial to stay vigilant and aware of the early warning signs.
One of the easiest yet most important ways to recognize a stroke is by following the FAST method.
- F – Face Drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop or appear numb?
- A – Arm Weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward or feel weak?
- S – Speech Difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- T – Time: If you notice any of these signs, act immediately and call for medical help.
Additionally, there’s an extended version known as the BEFAST method, which includes two other signs to watch for.
- B – Balance: Check if the person is having trouble with balance or coordination.
- E – Eyes: Check if the person has sudden loss of vision or double vision.
The quicker a stroke is addressed, the higher the chances of minimizing its impact on the brain and overall health.
If you or someone in your family has experienced a stroke, consistently monitoring and managing the condition moving forward is always advised. Following initial treatment, doctors often recommend follow-up tests, such as a Brain MRI, to prevent recurrence, track recovery progress, and address potential complications.
An MRI provides highly detailed images of the brain (including blood vessels) to help assess the extent of damage, detect underlying conditions that could lead to another stroke, and monitor recovery over time.
Furthermore, individuals with a family history of stroke face an increased risk of experiencing one themselves. MRIs can also be instrumental in early detection and prevention by identifying silent strokes, small brain changes, or new blockages that may not yet cause symptoms but could increase future stroke risk.
In the Philippines, stroke remains a major health concern, ranking as the third leading cause of death. Given its serious impact, early detection through advanced imaging such as MRI services should not only be widely accessible but must also guarantee the highest level of precision and care.
At Shinagawa Diagnostic, we strive to elevate and redefine Brain MRI standards with the introduction of the Philippines’ first helium-free MRI machine. Delivering innovation, sustainability, and top-tier imaging quality without compromising on accuracy, our cutting-edge equipment offers patients a faster, more comfortable experience compared to traditional MRI systems.
In addition, we also implement a Double-reading Method, further enhancing the reliability of our diagnostics. MRI results are reviewed by both Filipino and Japanese medical experts, this ensures precision and gives patients the best possible insights into their health.
Sources and Citation:
Philippine Statistics Authority
Cleveland Clinic
Medical News Today