You, the Patient
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have a new website, dedicated to the prevention of, and speedy response to, strokes.
Strokes, some doctors say, should be called “brain attacks” so that people can better understand what they actually do to that organ. Just as is true of the heart, an attack can cause mild, moderate, severe, life-threatening or fatal changes.
Strokes just don’t get the same attention as the heart.
This is part of the CDC’s effort to raise awareness of this killer with you.
Read this to find out more about:
- Website for stroke from CDC (CDC)
- Research finding on better outcomes at designated stroke hospitals (US News and World Report/Health Day News/ Stroke)
- List of US hospitals which were designated as of 2008 (Joint Commission Stroke Hospital Finder)
“Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. About 137,000 Americans die of stroke every year.1
“A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when a clot blocks the blood supply to the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. You can greatly reduce your risk for stroke through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.
“Stroke can cause death or significant disability, such as paralysis, speech difficulties, and emotional problems. Some new treatments can reduce stroke damage if patients get medical care soon after symptoms begin. When a stroke happens, it is important to recognize the symptoms, call 9-1-1 right away, and get to a hospital quickly.”
US News and World Report/Health Day News
“ Stroke patients taken directly to a designated stroke center are much more likely to receive the clot-busting drug tPA than those taken to the nearest hospital, says a new study.
“If given within the first few hours after a stroke, tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) can reduce stroke-related disability.“Joint Commission Stroke Hospitals Finder
Using this feature, you can find out about stroke hospitals by checking the name of one you use, by your zip code or in your state. This is information you should have before you ever may need it.
Topics: You, the Patient
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