As a Stroke Center of Excellence, the care provided by Fort Sanders Regional and
Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Center physicians and staff is second to none. We proudly hold a Primary Stroke Center certification from the Joint Commission (one of only a handful in the state) as well three separate stroke accreditations from the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). We achieve such designations by having a committed medical team, excellent nursing and therapy services, and state-of-the-art
diagnostics,
treatment, and
rehabilitation.
Strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States and affect more than 600,000 Americans each year.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood flow to an area of the brain is interrupted by a blocked or broken blood vessel. When a stroke occurs, it kills brain cells in the immediate area. When the brain cells die, they release chemicals that set off a chain reaction that endangers brain cells in a larger surrounding area of brain tissue. Without prompt medical treatment, this larger area will also die. When brain cells die, the abilities that area of the brain controls are lost or impaired. The degree of recovery depends on the amount of brain cell death. To learn more about the three types of strokes,
click here.
There are several steps you can take to prevent stroke. The first is to know your risk for having a stroke. A
stroke assessment will help you identify steps you may need to take to lower your risk level. There are also several
prevention guidelines to help you guard against the possibility of stroke.
Warning signs of Stroke
- One-sided weakness, numbness, or paralysis
- Blurred or decreased vision
- Difficulty speaking and understanding speech
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Sudden severe or unexplained headache
Call 9-1-1 and seek medical attention immediately if you think you may be having a stroke.