Stroke Awareness: Every Second Counts

A stroke is a serious medical emergency that can happen to anyone, at any age. In the United States, it is the fourth leading cause of death and often leads to long-term disability.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain becomes blocked or bursts. When blood flow is interrupted, brain cells are quickly deprived of oxygen and can begin to die within minutes.

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, and North Oaks Health experts want you to know the signs of stroke and when to act fast.

Why Acting Fast Matters

When it comes to stroke, every second counts.

Getting medical care right away is critical. Some of the most effective treatments, like clot-busting medications, must be given within the first few hours after symptoms begin.

The longer the treatment for a stroke is delayed, the higher the risk of permanent brain damage, disability, or death. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the signs and call 911 immediately.

Know the Signs: B.E.F.A.S.T.

You can spot the warning signs of a stroke by remembering B.E.F.A.S.T.:

• B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance, dizziness, or trouble walking
• E – Eyes: Sudden vision problems, including blurry or double vision
• F – Face: One side of the face droops or feels numb; uneven smile
• A – Arm: One arm feels weak or numb; it may drift downward
• S – Speech: Slurred speech, confusion, or trouble understanding
• T – Time: Call 911 immediately and note when symptoms started

Even one of these symptoms is enough to act. Calling 911 right away can help save a life and improve recovery.

Advanced Stroke Care at North Oaks

North Oaks Health is committed to providing high-quality, timely stroke care for patients in our community.

North Oaks Medical Center is a certified Primary Stroke Center, recognized by The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association for meeting high standards in stroke care.

Last year, the hospital also earned the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus award and Target: Stroke™ Honor Roll Elite— national recognitions for providing fast, research-based treatment that improves patient outcomes.

“When every second counts, our dedicated team is resolute—because our community deserves nothing less than the absolute best to ensure more individuals enjoy longer, healthier lives,” affirms North Oaks Health President & CEO Michele K. Sutton, FACHE.

Support for Stroke Recovery

Stroke care does not stop after emergency treatment. Recovery is an important part of healing.

North Oaks Rehabilitation Hospital offers a Stroke Specialty Programaccredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), providing expert care to help patients regain their independence.

Patients and families benefit from:

• Physical, occupational and speech therapy
• Personalized treatment plans
• Education and support throughout recovery
• Ongoing resources and a monthly support group

The goal is to help each patient return to daily life as safely and independently as possible.

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Learn more about stroke care at North Oaks Health here.

Find out more about the North Oaks Rehabilitation Hospital Stroke Specialty Program here.

For details about the stroke support group, click here.