Stroke Care

At St. Mary's Hospital, we recognize the importance of time when it comes to a stroke, which is why we're specially qualified and prepared to help you when a stroke attacks.

When dealing with a stroke, there are three crucial, and equally important, stages to consider:
RECOGNIZE. REACT. RECOVER.

RECOGNIZE the symptoms.
A stroke can have many symptoms. If you experience any or all of these symptoms, it's likely a stroke—it's time to call 9-1-1 and get to St. Mary's.

• Blurred vision.
• Slurred speech.
• Numbness in your face or limbs.
• Confusion.

Many use an easy method called "FAST" to remember stroke symptoms.

Face: Can you smile? Does one side droop? Arm: Can you lift both arms? Is one weak? Speech: Is your speech slurred or muddled? Time: There's none to waste. Call 9-1-1.

REACT quickly.
A stroke attacks your brain, so the more time that's wasted during a stroke, the more brain you'll lose. You could even lose your life.

St. Mary's is ready to react. Within seconds of arriving at our new, state-of-the-art Emergency Department, patients with stroke symptoms receive an evaluation that results in a quick diagnosis and course of treatment.

And the St. Mary's team is specially qualified to treat a stroke.

Designated by The Joint Commission as an advanced Primary Stroke Center, St. Mary's offers:

• Around-the-clock access to stroke specialists
• Collaborative review of each patient's case and CT Scan imaging
• Selection of a full range of treatment options, including rapid transport for interventional or surgical care.

RECOVER to the fullest.
As your recovery process begins, we develop an individualized treatment plan that includes a wide range of professionals to help you on the road to recovery. They include:

• Therapists
• Dieticians
• Neuropsychologists
• Family and spiritual counseling, if requested

St. Mary's is also ready to be there for your long-term recovery. At the Advanced Rehabilitation Center, we help patients regain their physical, emotional and social lives.

We also hold a monthly Stroke Support Group that brings together those affected by stroke for encouragement and advice as you recover.

It's Time to Get Screened. It could save your life.

Monday, May 7th, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Blood Pressure Screening at Fairview Park Large Pavilion

Tuesday, May 15th, 5:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Blood Pressure Screening at the Decatur Public Library

Wednesday, May 23rd, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Blood Pressure Screening and Cholesterol Screening at the Fitness Fair at the YMCA