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A stroke is caused by a clot or rupture in a blood vessel that prevents the flow of blood to the brain. Blood delivers vital oxygen and nutrients to the brain, so in the event of a stroke, part of the brain and its cells begin to die.

The brain controls many body functions, so depending on the part of the brain where the stroke occurs, certain parts of the body will not work as they should.

A Primary Stroke Center

UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center is a Certified Primary Stroke Center, meaning it can provide life-saving treatment to patients who may have suffered a stroke. Our award-winning stroke program meets the American Stroke Association and Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) standards of care for stroke patients.

Time is essential in recovering from a stroke. UM BWMC's "brain attack team" of specialists provide stoke patients with immediate care upon their arrival. The medical center's stroke unit, physicians and nurses follow special pathways and protocols designed specifically for stroke patients to ensure that every patient receives the highest quality care.

Community Programs for Stroke Patients

UM BWMC offers special programs for the general public, and for those who have suffered a stroke and/or are at risk of one:

  • Rehabilitation for Stroke Patients is open to individuals who have suffered a stroke. Learn more about stroke recovery.
  • The Stroke Support Group is open to individuals who have suffered from a stroke and their friends and family. It is free of charge and meets the second Tuesday of every month. For more information, please call 410-787-4138.
  • Yoga for Stroke Patients is a specially designed yoga class for individuals who have experienced a stroke. Yoga has been shown to increase strength and flexibility, improve core strength, balance, coordination, and posture, improve breathing and the cardiovascular system, increase bone strength, improve brain function, decrease stress, and lower blood pressure - all beneficial to continued recovery for stroke survivors. This class is recommended for any stroke survivor who has completed rehabilitation, regardless of level of ability. Physician consent is required and participants are asked to bring their own yoga mat. For dates and times, visit our exercise classes page.

Know the Symptoms of Stroke

Dial 911 immediately if you have the following symptoms suddenly:

  • Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
  • Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Severe headache with no known cause

Find a Neurologist

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A "Get With The Guidelines: Gold Plus" award from the American Heart Association recognizing stroke procedures at the UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center.