Emergency

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center offers stroke treatment, rehabilitation and education. As a nationally-accredited stroke center, we know that every minute counts when it comes to a brain attack. Our team of experts is ready to act fast.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States.

Stroke Recognition

Some people wouldn't know a stroke if it hit them in the head! Most people think they know about strokes. But too often, they don't know enough. Stroke is not just an older person's illness; it can strike people of all ages. In fact, it's the third leading cause of death in the U.S. The first key to surviving a stroke is being able to recognize a stroke.  Paying attention to high blood pressure, cholesterol and exercise can dramatically lessen your risk for stroke.

Another key to survival is to take immediate action. From the first on-set of symptoms, call 9-1-1 and get to an Emergency Room, because one hour could make the difference of a lifetime for you or a loved one. Why? Because receiving medical attention as early as possible within the first three hours of a stroke greatly increases a person's chance for survival and even complete recovery. Also, learn what resources you have available in your area and keep in mind that Thomasville Medical Center's highly-specialized staff is always ready to help in a stroke emergency.

Symptoms

From the first sign of symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately! Get to an Emergency Room. One hour could make the difference of a lifetime.

Warning Signs

Know the warning signs:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination or trouble walking
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

StrokeSense

Thomasville Medical Center was the first community hospital nationally to adopt StrokeSense, a program developed by leading community hospitals, and their affiliated physicians nationwide, to help educate our community about strokes.

Call 336-474-3456 and ask for our StrokeSense information packet. For your convenience, we've provided a list of questions that may be helpful when talking to your doctor about stroke:

• What are my risk factors for stroke, and what can I do to lower my risk?
• What is my blood pressure?
• What is my cholesterol level?
• Can aspirin help prevent strokes and help treat "mini strokes"?
• What are the five warning signs of stroke?
• What tests can determine if I'm at risk for stroke?
• Which hospital in my community specializes in treatment of stroke?
• Besides immediate hospitalization, what else can I do if I experience the signs of a stroke?

For More Information

For more information, call us at 336-474-3456.