Stroke Care in Jefferson, Northern Lewis, and Southern St. Lawrence Counties
A stroke is an emergency medical condition that requires immediate care. Patients in northern New York suffering from stroke symptoms can receive care from our trusted medical facility. Carthage Area Hospital provides stroke care services to residents across Jefferson, northern Lewis, and southern St. Lawrence counties. We work in partnership with Upstate University Hospital and its Upstate Stroke Center, the first official Stroke Center in the state, to provide patients with expert, individualized care.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. When this happens, brain tissue can’t receive the oxygen and nutrients it needs from the bloodstream. The longer the brain goes without oxygen, the risk of brain cell death increases greatly. There are two main types of strokes:
- Ischemic: An ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke. It occurs when the blood vessels bringing blood to the brain are restricted or completely cut off. This is often the result of the presence of fatty deposits and blood clots. If a blood clot forms in the cerebral blood vessel, it’s known as a thrombotic stroke. However, if the blood clot forms in another part of the body and is transported to the brain, it’s referred to as a cerebral embolism or an embolic stroke.
- Hemorrhagic: A hemorrhagic stroke is the result of a ruptured blood vessel in the brain. When this occurs, the blood slowly seeps out into the brain cavity, compressing brain tissue and building pressure in the area.
F.A.S.T. Stroke Recognition
Strokes happen quickly, and every second counts. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms:
F – Face
This symptom presents in the muscles that support the mouth. You’ll notice that one side of the face droops downward. If a patient tries to smile, it may be uneven.
A – Arms
As soon as you notice a facial warning sign, ask the person to raise both arms. If they’re experiencing a stroke, they may only be able to lift one arm.
S – Speech
Ask the patient a question or have them repeat a phrase over and over again. If you notice their speech is slurred or doesn’t make sense, they’re likely experiencing a stroke.
T – Time
If a single symptom listed above is positively identified, call 9-1-1 as quickly as possible. The damage caused by a stroke may be mitigated the faster they’re brought to a hospital.
Our Treatment for Strokes
The emergency room at Carthage Area Hospital is fully functioning 24/7. First responders move quickly and decisively when they receive a dispatch call about a stroke. Our medical staff has access to state-of-the-art equipment, and our collaboration with Upstate University Hospital’s stroke center enhances the emergency services we offer.
Our ER is equipped with a CT scanner and an MRI scanner, so our physicians can move swiftly and efficiently to give stroke patients the vital care they need. Telemedicine puts our medical team in contact with Upstate neurologists in minutes, allowing stroke patients to be treated at their local community hospital here in Carthage, NY.
Trust the Medical Team at Carthage Area Hospital
Equipped with high-quality medical technology and a team of medical professionals, Carthage Area Hospital delivers cutting-edge stroke care services to patients throughout Jefferson, northern Lewis, and southern St. Lawrence counties in New York. Contact us today for more information.