Stroke Care at Lake Cumberland
As an Advanced Certified Primary Stroke Center, our stroke team provides an organized approach to expedite the treatment of, modify stroke-related risk factors for, and reduce disability in stroke patients. This certification is awarded only to hospitals that meet standards set by The Joint Commission for being a leader in the
identification, intervention and treatment of stroke care for patients.
Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes those hospitals that have state-of-the-art infrastructure, staff and training to receive and treat patients with the most complex strokes, including advanced imaging capabilities, 24/7 availability of specialized treatments, and staff with the unique education and competencies to care for complex stroke patients.
According to the American Heart & Stroke Associations, stroke is the #5 cause of death in the US. In Kentucky, cardiovascular
disease (which includes stroke) is #1.
To our hospital team, achieving Primary Stroke Center Certification is an important accomplishment. To our community, it’s assurance that the resources and quality care for stroke treatment will be ready and waiting when needed.
take a stroke health risk assessment
Next Steps
Understanding a Stroke
Stroke occurs when a blood vessel bringing blood and oxygen to the brain gets blocked or ruptures. When this happens, brain cells don’t get the blood that they need. Deprived of oxygen, nerve cells stop working and die within minutes. Then, the part of the body they control can’t function either. The effects of stroke may be permanent depending on how many cells are lost, where they are in the brain, and other factors.
You and your family should recognize the warning signs of stroke. You may have some or all of these signs. Note the time when symptoms start and call 9-1-1 or go directly to the Emergency Room. Stroke is a medical emergency! Don’t ignore these warning signs, even if they go away. Timing is important. There
are treatments that can be considered within 4 1/2 hours of the onset of symptoms. Remember to think FAST if you suspect a stroke.
STROKE WARNING SIGNS INCLUDE
- 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 trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Having a stroke can be a terrifying emergency for anyone, but especially for a younger patient -- to suddenly not be able to sit up on your own, talk normally, or move your body like you believe you should be able to is a shock. Fortunately for Danielle Hacker, she quickly received life-saving care and is able to enjoy another holiday with family and friends.