May is American Stroke Month: University Hospitals Offers Free Screenings and Educational Events

CLEVELAND - May is American Stroke Month, and University Hospitals Neurological Institute is offering the community peace of mind with free stroke screenings, educational events and health talks with neurologists.

A stroke occurs when an artery in the brain is either blocked or ruptures, intervening with blood flow to the brain. Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke, but few people know the warning signs.

It is important to recognize the stroke, as rapid detection and treatment helps improve the stroke outcomes. Use the acronym BE FAST to help remember the warning signs of stroke, and actions to take if someone near you is experiencing them.

B.E. F.A.S.T.

• Balance: Balance off
• Eyes: Blurry vision
• Face: Face droops
• Arms: Arm drifts downward
• Speech: Words slurred
• Time: Symptoms, call 9-1-1

Types of Stroke

Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke and occurs when a fatty substance (plaque) builds up in the arteries and narrows them, causing blood to flow more slowly and blood clots to form. The two main types of ischemic stroke are:

• Embolic stroke: When a clot forms somewhere in the body and travels through the blood vessels to the brain, stopping blood blow.
• Thrombotic stroke: When clots form in the artery that supplies blood to the brain.

"Our telestroke network across UH stroke system as well as our partner systems expand reach for highest level of stroke diagnosis and early management across Northeast Ohio. Our multidisciplinary team of experts in the fields of vascular neurology, neurosurgery, neurocritical care and neurointervention ensure timely comprehensive care from the very point of arrival improving outcomes for our patients," explained Amrou Sarraj, MD, FAHA, FSVIN, UH Neurological Institute and Director, Comprehensive Stroke Center and Stroke Systems, George M. Humphrey II Endowed Chair, and Professor of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.

A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks causing bleeding into or around the brain. There are two main kinds of hemorrhagic stroke.

• Intracerebral hemorrhage: Occurs when a fragile brain artery ruptures causing bleeding into the brain tissue. This rupture is very sudden and can be severe, causing brain damage and swelling.
  
  
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Results from bleeding around the brain, often causing a severe, "worst of my life" headache. Although this type of stroke only causes 5 percent of all strokes, it is the most severe.

"Our state-of-the-art stroke system approaches the critical moments of a hemorrhagic stroke with the best tools available today. By utilizing advanced techniques to secure aneurysms from inside the blood vessels and minimally invasive surgery to carefully clear blood clots, we offer a comprehensive care that prioritizes precision, patient safety, and the best possible recovery outcomes," Dr. Sarraj added.

According to the American Stroke Association, approximately 80% of strokes are preventable, and the best way to treat a stroke is to prevent it. When it comes to stroke, it's important to know the risk factors - high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. Making healthy choices, such as quitting smoking, watching your weight and exercising regularly can help with prevention.

Screenings & Events

The stroke risk screenings offered throughout the health system and community this month include an assessment of blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol and body mass index. Preregistration isn't required.

For more information about stroke risk factors and to learn more about the screenings and various events offered throughout May, visit: UHhospitals.org/StrokeRisk

Stroke Awareness Month: Stroke 101 Virtual health talk

• Wednesday, May 13 | 6 - 7 p.m.
• Presented by: Cathy Sila, MD, Chair of the Department of Neurology at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, and the Gilbert W. Humphrey Endowed Professor of Neurology.

The screenings and educational events will be offered at the following locations this year.