Stroke

Baptist has received Disease-Specific Advanced Certification from Joint Commission in Stroke, and is recognized as a Primary Stroke Center. Additionally, Baptist earned the Silver Plus Performance Achievement Award with "Get With the Guidelines" from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

Stroke is an interruption of blood flow in the brain. It is a medical emergency in which every minute counts. Recognize the symptoms of stroke:

• Facial droop, uneven smile
• Arm or leg numbness, arm or leg weakness
• Slurred speech, difficulty speaking or understanding

If you or someone you love suddenly experiences any of these symptoms ("sudden onset"), call 911 and let the dispatcher know you think you might be having a stroke. At Baptist's Emergency Department, patients who are identified as possible stroke patients benefit from our "Stroke Alert" process. A Stroke Alert sets several things in motion right away, with the ultimate goal of administering t-PA, or "clot-buster," therapy to appropriate patients in less than 60 minutes “door-to-needle.”
:: Learn more about Emergency Services at Baptist

Risk Factors for Stroke

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol use
• Physical inactivity and obesity
• Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
• Family history of stroke

Stroke Prevention: Treatment of Carotid Artery Disease
Many conditions can lead to stroke, one of which is the progressive build up of plaque within the carotid arteries. Patients with blockages in their carotid arteries, which are located on both sides of the neck and the main suppliers of blood to the brain, are at high risk for stroke. For these patients, Baptist Cardiovascular Services provides complete diagnostic and treatment programs. Board certified cardiologists, neurologists and vascular surgeons work together to coordinate appropriate diagnostic tests, which may include ultrasound, CT, or angiography. These determine the presence and extent of blockage in the carotid arteries. :: Click here to learn more about treatment of carotid artery disease at Baptist.

:: Click here to learn the warning signs of a stroke so you can "Act FAST."

Click the links below to view WLBT news stories about Stroke
• A.C.T. F.A.S.T.
• CREST Trial
• Birth Control Risk Factors
• Symptoms
• Risks Associated with Pregnancy
• Treatment Options
• Carotid Artery
• Rehabilitation (part one)
• Rehabilitation (part two)
• General Risk Factors

Baptist Medical Center has been 5-Star Rated for Carotid Surgery for 10 Years in a Row (2003-2012) by HealthGrades. :: Learn more about our HealthGrades awards.

Stroke Support Group
Baptist's stroke group offers support, information and encouragement to those who have had a stroke and their family members. The group meets quarterly. For dates and to register, please call 601-948-6262.

:: Learn about our cardiovascular physicians.
:: Learn about our neurologists.

:: Learn more from the American Stroke Association