Author: McLaren Flint
Statistics from the American Stroke Association are sobering. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. and a leading cause of disability. Fortunately, there are ways to recognize stroke warning signs to ensure critical time isn’t wasted before getting care.
There are two main types of stroke —ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes occur when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced. This prevents brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to die within minutes. Hemorrhagic strokes happen when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts and causes bleeding in the brain. The blood increases pressure on brain cells and damages them.
Stroke symptoms can include trouble speaking or understanding what others are saying, numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the face, arm, or leg; vision problems; trouble walking; and headache.
“When it comes to a stroke, prompt care is absolutely paramount in reducing damage to the brain,” said Dr. Mahmoud Rayes, an interventional neurologist and stroke specialist at McLaren Flint. “Early intervention can reduce the risk of long-term disabilities and minimize damage, which can significantly improve the chances of recovery and positive outcomes.”
Even if the symptoms of stroke seem to come and go or entirely disappear, always seek care immediately. A good way to remember and recognize the symptoms of stroke is to ‘Think BE FAST’, which includes doing the following:
- Balance-Does someone have a sudden loss of balance?
- Eyes-Is someone suddenly having vision trouble?
- Face- Is the person able to smile without their face drooping on one side?
- Arms- Is the person able to raise both arms? Does one arm drift downward or do they have weakness in one arm or leg?
- Speech- Is the person’s speech slurred or different than usual?
- Time- If you see any of the above signs, call 911 or seek emergency help immediately.
McLaren Flint's Comprehensive Stroke Center certification is the highest level of care available. It means providing the most current evidence-based care to patients experiencing stroke through established stroke care protocols. The hospital’s performance in giving clot-busting medications, opening clogged vessels in the brain, and caring for patients with other conditions leading to deficits in brain function is carefully studied and compared to national, local, and Joint Commission targets and benchmarks. The hospital sees patients from all over mid and northern Michigan as part of the McLaren Stroke Network.
“Our comprehensive stroke center accreditation encompasses everything that involves preventing, treating, and helping in the recovery of stroke,” said Connie LaPoint, McLaren Flint’s Neuro Stroke Program Coordinator. “We do outreach education, which includes teaching stroke risk factors and warning signs so people can seek treatment immediately. We help provide free screenings in the community. We have advanced imaging capabilities, highly trained physicians and support staff available 24/7, and rehabilitation resources. We also conduct research and offer support groups for the community. We have an amazing team.”
You can learn the signs of stroke and find screening and support group information at mclaren.org/flintstroke.