Each May, National Stroke Awareness Month reminds us the importance of knowing and acting on the signs of stroke.
“Strokes are a leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States,” says Dr. Nathan Larsen, an Emergency Medicine Physician and Medical Director of Emergency Medicine at ThedaCare Medical Center-Fond du Lac. “With swift medical intervention, we can potentially help save lives and improve outcomes.”
Defining Stroke
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brains stops. It’s an emergency situation. Call 911 if you suspect you or someone around you is experiencing a stroke.
The brain needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to work well. If the blood supply is stopped even for a short time, it can lead to problems. Brain cells begin to die after just a few minutes without blood or oxygen.
Stroke Types
There are two main stroke types: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
- Ischemic strokes, the most common type, occur when a clot blocks a vessel supplying blood to the brain. This blockage cuts off oxygen, leading to brain cell damage within minutes.
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a “mini-stroke,” also needs attention. A TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, usually lasting only a few minutes. Some TIAs can last longer, but the vast majority resolve in under an hour. While symptoms disappear quickly, a TIA is a critical warning sign that a full-blown stroke could be imminent. “Many people disregard a TIA because the symptoms go away,” Dr. Larsen says. “But that’s exactly when we want to see you — before something more serious happens.”
- Hemorrhagic strokes are less common but often more severe. They happen when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding that damages nearby brain tissue. This can lead to severe symptoms that worsen quickly.
Time Lost = Brain Lost
When it comes to stroke, every minute matters. According to the American Stroke Association, nearly 2 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated. Rapid treatment can help minimize brain damage and potentially save lives.
“Delays can increase the likelihood of permanent disability,” Dr. Larsen says. “The sooner we can begin treatment, the better the odds of a positive outcome.”
Immediate treatments for stroke can include clot-busting medications for an ischemic stroke and surgical intervention for a hemorrhagic stroke.
Know the Signs: BE FAST
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke is the first step in getting prompt help. The acronym BE FAST can help you remember the warning signs:
- Balance: Loss of balance or coordination
- Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile
- Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm — or leg
- Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Time: Time to call 911 immediately
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or someone else, call 911 right away. Do not try to drive yourself or a loved one to the hospital. Emergency medical services can begin lifesaving treatment in the ambulance and bring the affected individual to the appropriate medical facility without delay.
Care Throughout the Region
DNV GL – Healthcare stroke certification verifies that an organization’s stroke care programs meet or exceed standards of care in the delivery of quality stroke care. ThedaCare has received certification for eight of its hospitals.
The highest level of stroke care within the ThedaCare system is available at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah. Its Comprehensive Stroke Center offers round-the-clock acute care and partners with first responders and rural hospitals. The stroke team also provides virtual consultation to patients at ThedaCare Critical Access Hospitals.
ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Appleton is accredited as a Primary Stroke Center. This recognizes that the medical center offers the necessary staffing, infrastructure, and programs to stabilize and treat most stroke patients.
Five ThedaCare Critical Access Hospitals have earned Acute Stroke Ready certifications from DNV GL – Healthcare. These include ThedaCare Medical Centers in Berlin, New London, Shawano, Waupaca and Wild Rose.
This certification allows smaller and rural hospitals to demonstrate excellence by complying with standards of care for the initial treatment of stroke patients. It reflects that rapid action and proper medications can save lives and limit the long-term disabling effects of strokes.
Stroke Care in Fond du Lac
Access to stroke care is now even more accessible. The newly opened ThedaCare Medical Center-Fond du Lac, located at 755 West Johnson St.,offers full-service emergency and inpatient care. With a team of highly trained physicians and the latest in diagnostic technology, ThedaCare is equipped to handle stroke emergencies.
“We’re proud to offer stroke care without people needing to travel long distances,” Dr. Larsen says. “Whether it’s a stroke or a suspected TIA, we’re equipped to respond immediately and to connect people to more advanced levels of care when needed.”
Don’t Wait — Act
Every second counts when it comes to a stroke. Don’t wait for symptoms to go away or try to handle the situation alone. Acting quickly can give you — or your loved one — the best chance at recovery.
“This May, commit to learning the signs of stroke, sharing them with your family, and remembering: BE FAST and call 911,” Dr. Larsen says.“Your quick action could make all the difference.”
Learn more about stroke and neurology care through ThedaCare.
