Stroke

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of your brain becomes reduced. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die. That’s why if you’re having a stroke, you need to call 911 immediately. The sooner you can get help, the better chance you’ll have to reduce brain damage. At SIH, our providers will help you minimize your risk factors to prevent a stroke from happening in the first place.

SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale and SIH Herrin Hospital are designated Primary Stroke Centers. Along with SIH St. Joseph Memorial Hospital and others in the stroke network, our stroke team is ready to handle this medical emergency.

SIH Stroke Network

 

Understanding the warning signs

The most effective stroke treatments are only available if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within the first three hours of the first symptoms. Here are a few common stroke symptoms, which can happen suddenly:

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

If you note the time you experienced your first symptom, this information can be helpful to our team.

Learn to B.E.F.A.S.T.

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