As a designated Primary Stroke Center, our hospital meets the highest standards
for treatment of stroke patients, including rapid care and innovative
procedures that prevent death and minimize brain damage. When a patient
is admitted to the hospital with stroke symptoms, our staff is specially
trained in procedures that offer the best chance of survival and recovery.
Baton Rouge General is also one of only three facilities in Louisiana to
earn the distinction of Center of Excellence by Silk Road Medical, the
developer of the TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) stroke procedure.
This minimally invasive procedure reverses the blood flow through the
brain to divert blood clots and plaque away from the brain to prevent
blockage and stroke. Before this procedure, the main treatment option
for high-risk patients with blocked carotid arteries was open surgery,
which increases the risk of stroke.
The best way to treat a stroke is to get quality care as fast as you can.
If you or someone you know is exhibiting stroke symptoms, call 911 or
visit the ER immediately.
What are the signs of a stroke?
One of the most effective ways to recognize the signs of a stroke is by
memorizing the acronym
F.A.S.T.:
FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
SPEECH: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Does speech sound slurred or strange?
TIME: If you observe any of these signs (independently or together), call 911
immediately.
Patients who have suffered a stroke sometimes report other symptoms, such
as sudden loss of balance, severe headache, paralysis of the face, arm
or leg, dizziness or change in vision.
How do I reduce my risk of stroke?
You can reduce your risk of stroke by eating a healthy diet, getting regular
exercise, not smoking, limiting your alcohol consumption, controlling
your cholesterol and blood pressure levels and getting regular checkups
with your primary care physician. If you have a family history of stroke
or cardiovascular disease, you should talk to your doctor about preventive measures.
The average person with atrial fibrillation (also called AFib or AF) is
five times more likely to have a stroke than someone with a regular heartbeat.
If you have AFib and are on blood thinners due a non-valvular condition, the
Watchman procedure might be for you.
