Strokes

Strokes Care at 24/7 Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX

A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted, leading to potential brain damage. At Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX, we are committed to providing rapid, expert care for stroke patients to minimize damage and improve outcomes.

Recognizing a Stroke

Early recognition of stroke symptoms is crucial. The acronym FAST can help you remember the key signs:

• Face Drooping: Does one side of the face droop or feel numb?
• Arm Weakness: Is there sudden weakness or numbness in one arm?
• Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred or difficult to understand?
• Time to Call 911: If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Treatment Options for Strokes

Emergency Care:

• • Immediate Assessment: Upon arrival at Heights Emergency Room, our medical team will quickly assess your condition using imaging techniques like CT scans or MRIs to determine the type of stroke and the extent of brain damage.
  • Thrombolysis (Clot Busters): For ischemic strokes, where a blood clot blocks an artery, we may administer tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) within a few hours of symptom onset to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow. Timing is critical for the effectiveness of this treatment.
  • Mechanical Thrombectomy: In some cases, a catheter-based procedure may be used to physically remove the clot from the blocked artery. This is typically performed within 24 hours of stroke onset.

Stroke Rehabilitation:

• • Physical Therapy: After the initial treatment, rehabilitation is essential for regaining strength and mobility. Our physical therapists design personalized exercise programs to improve motor skills and function.
  • Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists help patients relearn daily activities and adapt to any physical changes resulting from the stroke, enhancing independence.
  • Speech Therapy: For patients with speech or swallowing difficulties, speech therapists provide targeted exercises and strategies to improve communication and swallowing functions.

Ongoing Care and Management:

• • Medications: Post-stroke, patients may be prescribed medications to prevent future strokes, manage blood pressure, or address other risk factors.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Our healthcare team will offer guidance on lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments, smoking cessation, and regular exercise, to reduce the risk of another stroke.

Follow-Up and Support:

• • Regular Monitoring: Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor recovery progress, manage medications, and address any ongoing issues.
  • Support Services: We provide access to support groups and resources to assist patients and their families in navigating life after a stroke.

Prompt treatment and comprehensive care are essential for stroke recovery. At Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX, we are dedicated to delivering expert stroke care, from emergency interventions to long-term rehabilitation. Recognizing stroke symptoms early and seeking immediate medical attention can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes. If you or someone you know is experiencing stroke symptoms, don’t hesitate—call 911 and get to our emergency room quickly for the best chance at a positive outcome.