Explore Stroke & Neurocritical CareResources and Support
Strengthening Families Through Stroke Resources, Services & Education
Our dedicated Stroke Center is committed to equipping patients and their families with the knowledge, tools, resources, and support services to navigate the challenges a stroke presents. From understanding the warning signs and what to expect to managing potential risk factors and promoting a proactive approach to well-being, we are here to empower you and your loved ones before, during, and after a stroke.
What Is a Stroke?
Ischemic Strokes (Too Little Blood Flow)
Ischemic stroke’s occur as a result of a blockage or clot within a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain. These are the most common types of stroke. Time is brain; these strokes require immediate and timely recognition. Call 911 can get your family member to the hospital immediately for medical treatment and potential “clot-busting” medication.
Hemorrhagic (Too Much Blood Flow)
Hemorrhagic Strokes are caused by a weak blood vessel that bursts and produces bleeding into the brain. The blood ends up damaging the part of the brain it surrounds. These are not as common as an ischemic stroke. Hemorrhagic Strokes demand emergent medical treatment and care.
TIA
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is as serious a medical emergency as an ischemic stroke. A TIA is a “mini” stroke, where the blockage by a clot is temporary and your symptoms resolve. Your risk of having a full stroke is very high, and you should seek medical attention immediately.
How Is Stroke Diagnosed?
Before treatment we need to determine what type of stroke you are having, ischemic or hemorrhagic. A comprehensive neurologic exam, head CT, lab work, and further testing helps the care team determine a diagnosis of stroke.
Time Is Brain
It is so important to recognize the signs of stroke and to be sure that you or a loved one receives care quickly.
A simple way to remember the warning signs of stroke is:
B - BALANCE: Watch for sudden loss of balance
E - EYES: Check for vision loss
F - FACE: Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?
A - ARM: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S - SPEECH: Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue." Is the sentence repeated correctly?
T - TIME: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.
Additional symptoms of stroke include:
- Numbness or weakness of face arm and/or leg
- Acute Vision Changes
- Difficulty in speaking
- Trouble in understanding simple statements
- Confusion
- Trouble in walking or maintaining balance
- Sudden severe headache
A stroke interrupts blood flow to the brain. Fortunately, there are medications that, when administered quickly, can restore blood flow and start the healing process. Ideally, patients should receive this treatment within a three hour window. Earlier is always better.
Prevention: Risk Factors
Risk Factors
- Age Older Than 50
- Race – African American’s Having the Highest Risk
- Gender – Women
- Family History
- Prior Stroke or TIA
- Risk Factor’s You Can Control:
- High Blood Pressure
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity
- High Cholesterol
Stroke Prevention
Start by making steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
- Go to your primary care doctor routinely for blood pressure and wellness checks
- Do not smoke, and avoid second hand smoke
- Eat a healthy diet: Mediterranean diet is recommended
- Exercise
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Take all medication prescribed as directed
- Try to decrease stress in life
- Take up hobbies that help you relax