Every second counts when treating a stroke. Patients who arrive at Chinese Hospital undergoing a possible stroke can expect:

• Time-sensitive stroke treatment
• State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and techniques
• Experienced stroke care team
• Telemedicine partnership with UCSF Neurology
• All stroke treatments are certified by stringent Joint Commission standards
• Transfer to another facility when more advanced care is needed

What is Stroke

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain either bursts or becomes blocked. Without oxygen and nutrients carried by the blood, brain cells begin to die within minutes. This can lead to neurological problems such as impaired speech, vision, and movement, as well as paralysis and coma. A severe stroke can be fatal.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke is the fifth cause of death and a leading cause of long-term disability in the United States.

Stroke Awareness: Know Your Risk

When it comes to stroke, time lost is brain lost. Fast treatment can help reduce the risk of damage from most common strokes.

Remember these stroke warning signs:

FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

SPEECH: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred? Can he or she repeat the sentence correctly?

TIME: If the person shows any of these symptoms, time is important because brain cells are dying. Call 9-1-1 or get to a hospital FAST.