BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued an urgent warning about the risk of acute stroke while driving, which can result in fatal accidents, especially during the Songkran holidays.
DDC Director-General Dr. Montien Kanasawat stated that acute stroke can occur without warning, especially in individuals with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, or heart disease. If symptoms develop while driving, drivers may lose control, increasing the risk of serious or fatal accidents.
The public should recognize warning signs using the B.E.F.A.S.T. principle: loss of balance (Body), vision problems (Eyes), facial drooping (Face), arm weakness (Arm), speech difficulty (Speech), and the need for immediate action (Time). While driving, additional signs may include difficulty steering, drifting out of lanes, or erratic vehicle movement. Drivers experiencing these symptoms should stop driving immediately.
Deputy Director-General Dr. Anek Mungaomklang advised drivers experiencing these symptoms to remain calm, reduce speed, and pull over safely to the shoulder or at a rest stop. Drivers should activate emergency flashers, unlock the doors for rescuers, and call for help. He cautioned against continuing to drive, as this greatly increases the risk of a fatal crash.
Witnesses should keep a safe distance and not attempt to stop the vehicle themselves. Once the vehicle has stopped, assist by checking if the person can smile, speak clearly, or lift both arms. When calling 1669, provide details such as “suspected stroke, facial drooping, and slurred speech” to help the medical team prepare appropriately.
Authorities emphasized that stroke prevention involves managing underlying conditions, taking prescribed medications, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and having regular health check-ups. Anyone experiencing unusual symptoms should not drive under any circumstances.
The Department stressed that early recognition, immediate stopping, and rapid medical attention are essential to reducing road accidents and saving lives. (NNT)
