Surviving Stroke: It's a Matter of Time

Each year 550,000 Americans suffer strokes. Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States and the No. 1 reason for adult disability. To help our neighbors learn the signs of a stroke, reduce their risk and provide the prompt, lifesaving treatment and specialized therapy needed to recover, Blount Memorial Hospital features a state-of-the-art stroke program.

This comprehensive program focuses on stroke prevention and the importance of seeking immediate treatment for stroke-related symptoms.

Program highlights include:

Prevention: The stroke program sponsors stroke education to help those in our community reduce their risk for stroke. Education focuses on risk factors, symptoms, needed lifestyle changes and treatment options. Leaders also remind that if you suspect you are having a stroke, it is imperative that you get to the emergency room because your diagnosis and treatment must begin immediately.

Emergency Medical Services: Every minute counts when it comes to diagnosing and treating a stroke. Local EMS personnel are equipped to recognize and treat stroke effectively and efficiently.

Emergency Treatment: Through the Blount Memorial stroke program, each patient is assessed and diagnosed immediately by our expert emergency medicine physicians who are highly skilled at recognizing stroke symptoms and administering the latest medical treatments available.

Patient and Family Education: Topics discussed include dealing with any limitations resulting from stroke, making lifestyle changes, recognizing risk factors and taking the necessary steps to prevent a second stroke.

Stroke Recovery Treatment and Therapy: In-hospital care includes daily physical, occupational and speech therapy, plus medical treatment and counseling to reduce the risk factors that caused the stroke.

Beyond the Hospital

Some patients who require additional therapy such as physical or occupational therapies or speech-language pathology before returning home, will move to an inpatient rehabilitation center such as the Blount Memorial Transitional Care Center at MorningView Village. Others may move to a long-term care facility. Those who can safely return home will benefit from the assistance of a home health agency such as Blount Memorial Home Services.

Reaching Full Potential

To help stroke patients reach their maximum health and functional levels, the Blount Memorial stroke program provides continuous therapy and education options through the Medical Fitness program, the Outpatient Rehabilitation Centers at Springbrook or Tellico West, and the Blount Memorial Wellness Center at Springbrook.

For more information about the Blount Memorial stroke program or a free stroke support group offering, call 865-980-4739.