Not unlike spontaneous thieves in the night—or day—strokes often strike in a quick moment to unsuspecting victims. Knowing the warning signs of a stroke can mean life or death when one hits, as receiving quick medical attention is imperative for the best outcomes. New Orleans has a number of hospitals positioned to help patients who may be experiencing a stroke. By incorporating the latest technologies and research, health care professionals are able to offer better care quickly and potentially reduce the effects of a stroke. By knowing the symptoms and knowing where care is available, your quick reaction may mean a world of difference to someone suddenly affected by stroke. Next month is Stroke Awareness month—bolster your knowledge with the following information from area healthcare providers.
Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke. Stroke kills almost 130,000 people each year—that’s one out of every 20 deaths—according to the Centers for Disease Control. The most common symptoms of stroke may be sudden and include:
• Weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding
• Problems with vision, such as dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or problems with balance or coordination
• Problems with movement or walking
• Loss of consciousness or seizure
• Severe headaches with no other known cause, especially if sudden onset
All of the above warning signs may not occur with each stroke. If any of these symptoms are present, call 911 immediately. Treatment is most effective when started immediately. Visit Touro.com to learn more.
Tulane University School of Medicine’s Center for Clinical Neurosciences is dedicated to providing the highest quality patient-centered care by combining cutting-edge technology with personalized attention. The center allows for faster consults between physicians who specialize in different neuroscience disciplines and provides an improved continuity of care for neuro patients.
The center, in partnership with the world-class physicians at Tulane University School of Medicine’s Center for Neurosciences, offers the expertise and capabilities to effectively diagnose and treat spine, brain, and neurological conditions. To continue their tradition of excellence and expertise in providing the best quality care, education and research are integrated through the combined resources of Tulane University Hospital and Clinics and the Tulane School of Medicine.
The Center for Clinical Neurosciences operates an outpatient clinic located in Tulane Hospital that can be reached at 504-988-5561. Visit online at TulaneNeurosciences.com.