Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States experience a stroke, making it one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability. Aspirus Health is highlighting the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention as part of World Stroke Day on October 29.
Fawzi Hindi, MD, a neurosurgeon at Aspirus, emphasized the urgency of rapid care for stroke patients. “Every second matters when it comes to stroke. Immediate care gives patients their best chance for recovery, and that care starts in the Emergency Department at every Aspirus hospital.”
Aspirus hospitals across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota have Emergency Departments prepared to quickly identify and treat strokes. Dr. Hindi explained how this process works: “Stroke care begins the moment a patient arrives at the Emergency Department,” he said. “Our teams are trained to act fast, perform imaging, and start treatment immediately. Through our coordinated system and telemedicine support, we ensure that patients receive expert stroke care at every Aspirus location.”
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel bursts. Early recognition of symptoms can limit brain damage and improve recovery outcomes. Health professionals use the acronym BE FAST to help people remember common signs: sudden loss of balance or coordination; blurred or double vision; facial drooping or uneven smile; weakness or numbness in one arm or leg; slurred or difficult speech; and an urgent need to call 911 if these symptoms appear.
The network connecting Aspirus hospitals allows Emergency Departments, imaging teams, and neurologists to work together efficiently. Telemedicine enables real-time specialist consultations so that high-quality care is available locally.
“Stroke response depends on a team effort,” Dr. Hindi said. “Our hospitals use the same evidence-based approach to deliver rapid, effective treatment and coordinate advanced care when necessary.”
Aspirus Health’s systemwide strategy aims to provide accessible emergency response for communities throughout Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota. More information about recognizing strokes and prevention is available at aspirus.org/stroke-care.
