Carson Tahoe Health

Every 40 seconds someone in the United States suffers from a stroke, making it the fourth leading cause of death and the number one cause of adult disability in the country.

Fortunately, recent studies indicate that more than 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by keeping a healthy lifestyle — controlling high blood pressure; not smoking; eating a low-fat, low cholesterol diet; being physically active; maintaining a healthy body weight; and managing diabetes. Additionally, 30 percent of strokes can be reversed if treated immediately by a stroke care team.

While stroke symptoms vary, they can come on quickly and include:
• Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially if on one side of the body
• Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding
• Difficulty with vision either in one eye or both
• Trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance or coordination
• Severe headache

“Time is of the essence when treating a stroke and every second counts,” says Shawn Binn, MS, CCC-SLP, Speech Pathologist with Carson Tahoe Health. “The faster you are diagnosed and treated for a stroke, the better the chances of an improved outcome.”

Using the F.A.S.T. test can help people recognize and respond to the signs of stroke:
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 (independently or together), call 9-1-1 right away.
In recognition of National Stroke Awareness Month in May, Carson Tahoe Health is offering free events designed to educate the community on recognizing the signs and symptoms of stroke, identifying potential risk factors, and understanding the importance of seeking immediate medical care should the need arise.

Event Dates:
• May 12th – Carson City Senior Center (12PM)
• May 14th – Monthly Stroke Support Group at Regional Medical Center (4:30PM)

For more information about Carson Tahoe Health Stroke Awareness, go here.

About Carson Tahoe Health
Carson Tahoe Health is a local, not-for-profit healthcare system consisting of two hospitals, two urgent cares, an emergent care center, outpatient services and a provider network with over 20 regional locations. The system is headquartered on a beautiful master planned medical campus nestled among the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in north Carson City.

As the system’s cornerstone, Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center (CTRMC), voted 5th most beautiful hospital in the nation, is the only Baby Friendly designated hospital in Nevada. This magnificent facility offers a tranquil healing environment with 138 private rooms, an advanced open heart surgery program and expanded 24 hour emergency care. Also included on the medical campus is the State’s only gold level Cancer Center. For more information, go to www.carsontahoe.com.