Stroke Care

Strokes occur when the brain is deprived of oxygen-rich blood, often due to a blood clot or a burst blood vessel.

A stroke is a critical medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. Prompt medical attention is essential for anyone showing stroke symptoms.

Recognizing stroke symptoms

Knowing the warning signs of a stroke can save lives. Seek immediate help if you notice:

Confusion or disorientation
Sudden, severe headache
Numbness or inability to move an arm, leg, or face
Difficulty speaking
Loss of balance while walking

Remember: BE FAST

Stroke awareness graphic The acronym BE FAST helps identify stroke symptoms quickly:

B - Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
E - Eyes: Sudden vision issues in one or both eyes
F - Face: Facial drooping or paralysis on one side
A - Arms: Weakness or numbness in arms
S - Speech: Slurred or difficult speech
T - Time: Time to call 911 immediately

Causes of stroke

The majority of strokes, around 80%, are ischemic, caused by blocked arteries restricting oxygen to the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a brain blood vessel ruptures.

Stroke complications

Strokes can lead to long-term disabilities or fatalities. Quick action is crucial at the first sign of a stroke.

Potential lifelong complications include:

Speech or swallowing difficulties
Emotional and behavioral changes
Chronic pain or numbness
Paralysis

Reducing your stroke risk

Here are some ways to lower your stroke risk:

Maintain healthy blood pressure.
Avoid tobacco use.
Stay at a healthy weight.
Keep cholesterol levels in check.
Prevent type 2 diabetes.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Avoid recreational drugs.
Manage obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Certain risk factors, such as age, family history, and previous strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), are beyond your control.

Stroke care at Tanner

Our hospitals in Carrollton, Villa Rica and Bremen are accredited to deliver exceptional stroke care, ensuring you receive timely treatment. Our primary stroke centers are certified by The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

We also provide comprehensive rehabilitation services to help you regain strength and independence after a stroke.

Stroke Care Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I suspect someone is having a stroke?
Call 911 immediately. Time is critical in minimizing the impact of a stroke.

What are the major risk factors for stroke?
High blood pressure, smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a family history of stroke are significant risk factors.

Can strokes be prevented?
While some risk factors are uncontrollable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly lower your stroke risk.

What is the recovery process like after a stroke?
Recovery can vary greatly. Rehabilitation often involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help regain lost functions.