Advanced cardiac care to get you back to those you love

Advanced primary stroke care

Stroke is an emergency. If you are experiencing stroke symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Stroke is a swift and sudden killer that demands highly skilled treatment. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Because brain cells begin dying when deprived of oxygen, it is essential to restore blood flow as quickly as possible. Early treatment within three hours of the onset of symptoms can mean the difference between life, death and permanent disability.

Emergency treatment with medication

CHI Memorial’s stroke program has been designated an Advanced Primary Stroke Center due to its ability to deliver critical care for the most common type of stroke. Our stroke team is trained in the latest treatments, including the rapid delivery of clot-busting medications such as tPA. Time is the critical factor in treating stroke: rapid treatment can significantly increase the chances of survival and reduce complications. Treatment must begin within 4.5 hours from the onset of symptoms - and the sooner, the better.

Signs of stroke

Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks the vessels carrying blood to the brain. Similar to a heart attack, symptoms typically appear suddenly without any warning. Here’s what to look for:

  • Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of your body, especially face, arm and/or leg
  • Sudden trouble talking, thinking, or understanding
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Sudden loss of balance
  • Sudden severe headache

If any of these symptoms occur, do not wait! Call 9-1-1 and note the time symptoms started.

Recovering from stroke

Because stroke affects the brain, no two stroke survivors will experience exactly the same injuries or disabilities. Some survivors may recover fully while others will have slight, moderate or severe disabilities. During the first 30 days, rapid recovery is possible depending on the location and severity of the stroke.

  • Paralysis or weakness
  • Vision problems
  • Communication difficulties 
  • Emotional volatility 
  • Depression

The sooner, the better once your medical condition is stable. Rehabilitation often begins within 1 to 2 days after your stroke while you’re still in the hospital. If medical issues continue, doctors may wait to begin rehabilitation.

Some stroke survivors recover quickly and regain a significant amount of lost abilities. However, most people will require some form of stroke rehabilitation long term, possibly months or years after their stroke.

Your recovery will evolve as you relearn skills and your needs change. With ongoing practice, you can continue to make gains over time.

Stroke certifications

CHI Memorial earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers. The Gold Seal of Approval® and the Heart-Check mark represent symbols of quality from their respective organizations. 

The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association recognized CHI Memorial with the 2020 Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence. CHI Memorial received two additional awards from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association - Target: StrokeSM Elite Plus and Target: Type 2 Honor Roll .  Learn more about Get With The Guidelines®