A stroke happens when blood stops flowing to part of the brain. Brain cells start to be lost within minutes, so the faster a person gets care, the better their chance of a good recovery.
The Acute Stroke Unit at VRP Medical Center cares for patients in the first critical hours and days after a stroke. We work closely with the Emergency Room, our imaging team and our rehabilitation specialists, so that patients and their families are guided from the moment they arrive until they are ready to go home.
Know the signs of a stroke: BE FAST
A stroke can happen to anyone, at any age. If you notice any of these signs, even if they go away, get help right away.
B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or dizziness.
E – Eyes: Sudden blurred or lost vision in one or both eyes.
F – Face: One side of the face droops when they smile.
A – Arms: One arm or leg is weak or numb.
S – Speech: Slurred speech or trouble understanding words.
T – Time: Note the time the signs started and get to the ER now.
What to do if you think it is a stroke
Every minute counts. If you think someone is having a stroke:
- Get help right away. Go straight to the nearest Emergency Room, or call for an ambulance. The VRP Emergency Room is open 24 hours, daily.
- Remember the time. Note when the signs first started. This helps the doctors choose the right treatment.
- Don’t let them drive. The person should not drive themselves to the hospital.
- Don’t give food, drinks or medicine, unless a doctor tells you to. Swallowing may be hard after a stroke.
- Keep them safe and comfortable. If they are drowsy or throwing up, help them lie on their side.
- Bring their medicines, or a list of them, so the team knows what they take.
Who is more at risk
Anyone can have a stroke, but the chance is higher for people who have:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Heart problems, such as an irregular heartbeat
- A habit of smoking
- Excess weight, or little physical activity
- A family history of stroke
- Had a stroke or a “mini-stroke” (TIA) before
The risk also goes up with age. The good news is that many of these can be controlled. Regular check-ups help find and manage them early.
Life after a stroke
Every recovery is different. Some people get better in weeks, others need months.
- Rehabilitation helps people relearn everyday skills, like walking, speaking, eating and taking care of themselves.
- Follow-up visits and medicines help lower the chance of another stroke.
- Healthy habits make a big difference: eating well, staying active, not smoking, and keeping blood pressure and blood sugar in check.
- Feelings matter too. It is normal to feel sad, tired or worried. Talk to your doctor if these feelings don’t go away.
- Families are part of the team. Learning how to help at home makes the road to recovery easier for everyone.
SERVICES OFFERED
EMERGENCY STROKE CARE
Patients with signs of a stroke are checked quickly in the Emergency Room, so the team can decide on the right treatment as early as possible.
BRAIN IMAGING
CT scan and MRI help doctors see what is happening inside the brain and choose the safest treatment for each patient.
CLOSE MONITORING
After treatment, patients are watched closely by doctors and nurses, who check for changes and help prevent another stroke.
STROKE REHABILITATION
Our rehabilitation team helps patients relearn everyday skills, like walking, speaking and eating, and supports families along the way.
