Riverwood Healthcare Promotes Stroke Awareness on World Stroke Day

In observance of World Stroke Day on October 29, 2023, Riverwood Healthcare Center in Aitkin is urging the community to educate themselves about stroke awareness. The healthcare facility emphasizes the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms and understanding risk factors, as timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes for patients.

Stroke ranks as a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. Prompt action is critical, as knowing the signs of a stroke and calling 911 immediately can lead to rapid medical care when every second counts.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Riverwood Healthcare offers a simple mnemonic to help people remember the signs of a stroke: BE FAST.

– **Balance**: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
– **Eyes**: Sudden blurred or double vision.
– **Face**: Drooping on one side of the face.
– **Arms**: Weakness or numbness in one arm.
– **Speech**: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
– **Time**: Call 911 right away and note the time when symptoms began.

If anyone experiences these symptoms, immediate action can protect brain function and enhance recovery chances.

Understanding Risk Factors

Several factors can elevate the risk of experiencing a stroke, including:

– High blood pressure
– Diabetes
– High cholesterol
– Smoking
– Obesity or lack of physical activity
– Heart disease or irregular heart rhythms
– Family history of stroke

Many of these risks can be managed through routine checkups, healthy lifestyle choices, and support from healthcare professionals.

Riverwood Healthcare Center has received certification as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital from the Minnesota Department of Health. This recognition highlights the facility’s capacity to provide swift stroke evaluation, treatment, and effective coordination with specialists for advanced care.

Additionally, the center participates in the Mission: Lifeline Stroke Post-Acute Care Initiative, spearheaded by the American Heart Association and The Helmsley Charitable Trust. This initiative promotes evidence-based practices aimed at enhancing recovery and improving long-term outcomes for stroke survivors.

“Every minute counts during a stroke,” emphasized Angie Harmon, Stroke and Trauma Program coordinator at Riverwood, in a recent statement. “Riverwood has the tools to provide immediate care and connect patients with the resources they need to recover.”

For those who suspect they or someone else may be having a stroke, calling 911 without delay is crucial. To learn more about stroke care services at Riverwood Healthcare Center, visit riverwoodhealthcare.org or contact them at 218-927-2121.