Stroke Education

About Stroke

About Stroke Cerebrovascular disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the supply of blood to the brain, causing limited or no blood flow to the affected areas. One such condition is stroke. A stroke can occur when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain becomes blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs and it starts to die.

Types of Stroke

Ischemic Stroke (Clots).

An ischemic stroke is most common and is caused when a blood vessel inside the brain is clogged or blocked off.

Hemorrhagic Stroke (Bleeds).

This is caused when a blood vessel in the brain bursts causing blood to leak into the brain tissue and is called an intracerebral hemorrhage. Another type of hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a weakened vessel leaks into the area around the brain and is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA).

This is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Since it doesn’t cause permanent damage, it might seem like no big deal. But ignoring it is a big mistake because a TIA may signal a full-blown stroke ahead.

Stroke Education and Risk Factor Modification

For a comprehensive education book about stroke, treatment, therapy, diet, medication and post stroke care and FAQ’s, please use the link below to access the American Heart Association “Let’s Talk About Stroke” education fact sheet library.

American Heart Association “Let’s Talk About Stroke” education fact sheet library

American Heart Association "Life's Essential 8"

With strokes, it pays to BE FAST

Two million brain cells die each minute after a stroke occurs. The sooner you recognize the symptoms and seek help, the better. Every minute from stoke to treatment counts. This is why we say, with stroke-time equals brain.

If you or your loved one experiences SUDDEN ONSET of any of the following symptoms should call 911 immediately to expedite your care:

BE FAST graphic

  • BALANCE - Loss of balance or dizziness

  • EYES - Blurred or double vision

  • FACE - One side of the face is drooping

  • ARMS - Arm or leg weakness

  • SPEECH - Speech difficulty

  • TIME - Time to call for ambulance immediately or Terrible Headache

Stroke Support Groups

The McLaren Stroke Network offers a free education and support program series for stroke patients, people at high risk of a stroke, family members of stroke patients, and the community. Series speakers represent a number of different disciplines including physicians, speech language pathologists, physical and occupational therapists, dieticians, pharmacists, nurses, and individuals from the community. Educational topics change annually and are chosen based on group needs and requests. The first half of the meeting is reserved for the speakers and any questions from the attendees in an effort to improve the participants knowledge of stroke, therapies and treatment, and prevention. The second half of the meeting is allocated for support for the survivors and their friends, family and caregivers. This is especially important now, when families and friends are not able to see each other as much in person.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and patients in rural areas, the support group has gone virtual. The McLaren Stroke Network is pleased to provide access to stroke education and support to as many stroke patients and caregivers in Michigan as possible, no matter where they live. The virtual options for stroke education and support include different dates, times, speakers, and topics. Attend the group that best fits your schedule. You are welcome to attend as many group sessions as you would like. In-person groups are also available at certain McLaren subsidiaries.

View McLaren Stroke Support Group Dates

All McLaren Stroke Support Groups

*Please note, subjects and speakers may change due to unforeseen circumstances.

Events

stroke services

Bay Area Stroke Education Series - Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke

3190 E. Midland Road
Bay City

stroke services

Central Michigan Area Stroke Support Group

FDJ Conference Room
1221 South Drive
Mt. Pleasant

stroke services

Stroke Screening

East Lobby Entrance
1221 South Drive
Mt. Pleasant

rehabilitation, senior services, stroke services, trauma services

Balance Screening - Bay City

4175 N. Euclid
West Side Medical Mall
Bay City
See All Events