Understanding Strokes

May was National Stroke Awareness Month. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We recently had a discussion with Kenneth Levin, MD, Medical Director of The Valley Hospital Stroke Center, to better understand strokes.

Q: What is a stroke?

A: A stroke is a “brain attack” that occurs when blood supply to the brain is cut off. Most strokes are caused by a blood clot that has built up on the wall of a brain artery or one that has traveled to the brain from another part of the body, known as an embolic stroke or ischemic stroke. Another type of stroke, known as hemorrhagic stroke, is caused by a ruptured blood vessel or aneurysm in or near the brain, which results in bleeding within or over the surface of the brain.

Q: What are the symptoms of a stroke?

A: An easy way to remember the warning signs of stroke is by using the acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. It is important to act fast and call 911 immediately if you or someone you know experience these warning signs.

Balance loss

Eyes blue

Face dropping

Arm weakness

Speech difficulty

Time to call 911

Q: What does a stroke do to the brain?

A: A stroke can result in weakness or paralysis of one side of the body, sensory loss, vision loss, loss of speech or the ability to understand others, memory loss, or a combination of these factors. It can be slight or severe, temporary or permanent, depending on the extent of damage to the brain. It can also cause death or serious injuries that can be harmful to your quality of life. Possible complications include pneumonia or potentially dangerous blood clots in the legs.

Q: Why should people choose The Valley Hospital for stroke care?

A: The Valley Hospital Stroke Center leads the area in advanced technology, leading-edge treatment options, and neurological and neurosurgical expertise. We offer a full complement of stroke care, including diagnostic testing, treatment, rehabilitation, support, prevention, education, and research. Our experienced stroke team diagnoses and treats stroke symptoms swiftly and aggressively.

The Valley Hospital also has the capabilities to provide high-end care in terms of treatment for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. We offer treatments including tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) to break up blood clots, thrombectomy to remove large blood clots, and other neurointerventional procedures.

To learn more about stroke care at Valley, please visit ValleyHealth.com/Stroke.