Stroke

Every second counts when a person is having a stroke - that's why it is crucial to call 911 and get to a medical center with a designated Stroke Center.

UM St. Joseph's Stroke Center is certified by The Joint Commission which recognizes centers that make exceptional efforts to foster better outcomes for stroke care. UM St. Joseph is also accredited by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS).

In the United States, nearly every 45 seconds a person is struck down by a stroke and every three minutes a person dies from a stroke. It is the third leading cause of death in the country behind heart disease and cancer.

Know the symptoms. Get immediate medical attention.

Warning Signs

This simple test will help you detect stroke symptoms and B.E F.A.S.T.:

B = Balance Does the person have a sudden loss of balance?

E = Eyes Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?

F = FACE Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A = ARMS Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S = SPEECH Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
Does the speech sound slurred or strange?

T = TIME If you observe any of these signs, it's time to call 9-1-1 or get to the nearest stroke center or hospital.