Stroke Symptoms: Don't Ignore Them.
If you or a loved one has sudden onset of the following symptoms, remember to act FAST:
- F: Face drooping. Ask the person to smile. Is one side of the smile drooping?
- A: Arm weakness or numbness, particularly on one side of the body. Ask the person to lift both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- S: Speech that is slurred or difficult to understand. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Do the words come out clearly?
- T: Time to call 911. If the person shows any of these signs, call 911 immediately.
Regional Leader in Stroke Care
Why Choose Rush for Stroke Care
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Quality Care
Certified by the Joint Commission as a comprehensive stroke center, which means patients receive the highest level of stroke care
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Regional Leader
In the last year 85 hospitals across the region transferred nearly 1,000 patients to Rush
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Risk Assessments
Provide second opinions for people with suspected TIAs
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Focus on Prevention
Medical and lifestyle change support to help prevent a stroke or recurrence of stroke
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Comprehensive Rehabilitation
Includes occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy
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Emotional Support
Includes one-on-one support through the Stroke Buddy Program and a “Life After Stroke” support group
Risk Factors for Stroke
The following increase a person's risk of stroke:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Atrial fibrillation
- Congestive heart failure
- Diabetes
- Illegal drugs, such as intravenous drugs and cocaine
- Excessive alcohol: more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men
- A previous stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack or “mini stroke”)