Experiencing a stroke can be scary; the outcome of a stroke can be devastating if not treated quickly. Stroke is a leading cause of death in the United States, but we can combat this statistic by helping people to identify the symptoms and know when to get help. 

Rest assured, Nuvance Health is dedicated to helping our communities understand stroke symptoms and providing the best possible care by specially trained rapid response teams.

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial to minimize brain damage and potential complications, such as long-term disability or death.

Types of strokes

There are two main types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes, which account for about 87% of all cases, occur when blood flow in the artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain becomes blocked. Hemorrhagic strokes happen when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures. Each type requires a specific treatment approach, underscoring the importance of immediate medical intervention.

Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke

You can remember the symptoms of a stroke with the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T.:

  • B – Balance: Loss of balance or coordination, dizziness
  • E – Eyes: Trouble seeing out of one or both eyes
  • F – Face: Facial weakness, uneven smile
  • A – Arm: Unable to lift both arms evenly, numbness, weakness
  • S – Speech: Difficulty speaking, slurred speech
  • T – Time: Call 9-1-1

Time is of the essence in treating stroke. Calling 9-1-1 immediately ensures that emergency medical services (EMS) can begin life-saving assessments en route to the hospital.

It is important not to drive yourself or someone to the hospital if you notice stroke symptoms. An ambulance will alert the hospital about receiving a possible stroke patient and have the rapid response team ready upon your arrival. Even if you are unsure about the symptoms, it is better to be safe than sorry. We are here for you and will address your concerns with a thorough exam and tests.

Nuvance Health is here for you

Danbury Hospital and its New Milford Hospital campus, Norwalk Hospital and Sharon Hospital are committed to providing the highest standard of stroke care. Each hospital’s team has expertise and rapid response capabilities to ensure patients have the best possible chance of recovery from a stroke.

For those of you in Wilton and the surrounding area, please know that Danbury Hospital and Norwalk Hospital both have Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center Certification from The Joint Commission — one of the highest quality recognitions possible. New Milford Hospital has top-level stroke caregivers, and as a campus of Danbury Hospital, the team coordinates the safe transfer of stroke patients who need a higher level of care, such as neurosurgical intervention.

The presence of such facilities within our community is not just a matter of convenience; it is a vital resource that can save lives and preserve quality of life.

Knowledge is power when it comes to stroke

Understanding stroke, its types, symptoms and the critical nature of immediate medical response cannot be overstated. EMS providers in our area are trained to recognize and manage acute strokes. They communicate with each hospital’s Emergency Department to alert the stroke team in advance of a patient’s arrival, saving precious time. 

Let this knowledge empower you to act swiftly should you or someone you know show signs of a stroke. Please take comfort in knowing that, should the unexpected happen, you have access to exceptional stroke care.

Learn more about stroke care at Nuvance Health by visiting Nuvance Health Stroke Services online.