Stroke Care Now Network

There are two types of strokes:

Ischemic stroke: when a blood clot blocks one of the vital blood vessels in the brain.

Hemorrhagic stroke: when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, spilling blood into surrounding tissue.

Two million brain cells die every minute during a stroke, increasing the risk of permanent brain damage, disability or death.

Recognizing symptoms and acting F.A.S.T. can save a life and decrease the chances of permanent disabilities.

Confusion or difficulty speaking/understanding

Difficulty swallowing

Sudden loss of vision

Sudden numbness, weakness or paralysis of the face or on one side of the body

Sudden severe headache

Unexplained dizziness and/or loss of balance

Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is speech slurred or strange?

Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

PMH is a member of the Stroke Care Now Network. If a patient comes into the ER and appears to have the symptoms of a stroke, there is expert help just seconds away. With our specialized video equipment, a neurologist in Fort Wayne can observe the patient in “real time” for certain signs and symptoms and can assist the ER physician in immediately diagnosing a stroke. If treatment can be initiated within 3-6 hours of onset of stroke symptoms, most strokes can be reversed.

If patients need more complex care in the event of a stroke, they can be transported via helicopter directly from PMH to Fort Wayne-just 30 minutes away by air. Skilled nurses and paramedics staff the helicopter and they will continue patient care during the flight.

For more information access the Stroke Care Now Network at http://www.strokecarenow.com

Stroke Care Now Network

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