The goal of the Stroke Center at Providence is to more effectively educate Central Texans on the signs and symptoms of stroke. The five signs to remember include: 1) sudden weakness on one side of the body; 2) sudden numbness on one side of the body; 3) sudden difficulty speaking; 4) sudden loss of vision on one side; and 5) sudden difficulty walking. Should one or more of these signs occur, dial 911 and seek medical attention immediately.

According to Dr. Adam Borowski, Providence Interventional Neuroradiologist, most strokes occur when there is a blockage in one of the blood vessels leading to the brain. Without oxygen and nutrients carried by the blood, brain cells will die--very similar to how a heart attack occurs. Those at higher risk for having a stroke are over age 55, smokers, people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or those with elevated cholesterol levels.

Strokes are the third most common cause of deaths in the United States and are the leading cause of long-term disability. According to the American Heart Association, long-term disabilities from strokes cost the nation more than $45 billion annually in direct and indirect costs. Every year, there are over one-half million new strokes diagnosed in our country alone. The National Stroke Association statistics show that stroke affects more than 700,000 Americans each year, causing 160,000 deaths. The Stroke Center's medical team hopes to help decrease these statistics by helping Central Texans know when to seek immediate medical attention!