Stroke
If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of stroke, seek emergency medical care immediately to ensure the best possible outcome.
Your brain requires a constant supply of oxygen in order to properly function. Since brain cells begin to die after just a few minutes without blood or oxygen, even a brief interruption in this supply can cause irreparable damage.
Stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted. Time is critical if you or someone you love is having a stroke. The longer the brain is without oxygen, the more severe the damage is likely to be. To be most effective, certain lifesaving treatments must be started within a small window of time.
SSM Health Neurosciences offer the most advanced treatments for stroke. When every second counts, our experienced team of neurologists, neurointerventionists, neurosurgeons, stroke nurse practitioners, stroke coordinators, ER physicians, radiologists, dedicated nurses and clinicians work together to deliver life-saving treatment.
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Learn the Signs: BE FAST
Use BE FAST to learn the signs of a stroke and the importance of getting help early.
Types of Strokes
There are two primary types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
- An ischemic stroke happens when either a blood clot or piece of plaque blocks one of the vital blood vessels in the brain.
- A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures, spilling blood into surrounding tissues.
Since each type of stroke requires a different type of treatment, your emergency medical team must determine the cause of the stroke, as well as the location, as quickly as possible. At SSM Health, our specialized stroke team offers comprehensive diagnosis, cutting edge treatment and effective rehabilitation to help you recover from stroke.
Reducing Your Risk of Having a Stroke
Strokes are the leading cause of long-term disability and a leading cause of death in the United States. While advances in treatment have increased the odds of survival, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of having a stroke:
- Stop smoking.
- Make healthy food choices. Choose foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt and added sugars.
- Stay at a healthy weight.
- Take medications as prescribed.
- Be physically active. Exercise makes your body and your blood vessels healthier. It also helps control your risk factors, such as blood pressure, diabetes and weight.
- Limit alcohol use.
