Stroke - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Stroke

What is a stroke?

A stroke is a brain attack that occurs when a clot or ruptured blood vessel interrupts blood flow in the brain. It is essential that stroke victims get help immediately for the best chances of recovery. Do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 and go to a hospital like St.Vincent that is certified as a Primary Stroke Center.

Stroke is an emergency. Know the symptoms so you can act quickly.

Common symptoms in both men and women include:

• Sudden, severe, unexplained headache
• Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
• Weakness or numbness in the face or arms, especially on one side
• Dizziness, trouble walking, a loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding

How can you lessen your risk for stroke?

Here are some things you can do:

• Don't smoke
• Improve your eating habits and keep a healthy weight
• Be physically active
• Take your medicine as directed
• Get your blood pressure checked and control it if it's high
• Decrease your stress level

The sooner you get here, the more options you have.

The St.Vincent Neuroscience Institute at St.Vincent Indianapolis Hospital is:

• Ranked in the top 5 percent nationally for stroke care by HealthGrades (2010)
• An Advanced Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission
• The first Joint Commission-accredited stroke program in Central Indiana

Find out more – and what you can do if you recognize a stroke – at KnowYourSigns.org.