Advanced stroke care, right when you need it
Stroke is a common medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or blocked, reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients and causing brain cells to die. Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States.
Certified stroke facility
UT Health Tyler has been designated a comprehensive stroke facility by the state of Texas. This means our center has met all the educational and clinical requirements outlined by the Joint Commission. Among the numerous requirements are 24/7 access to:
- a designated neurosurgical operating room
- emergency center doctors and nurses with specialized, ongoing stroke training
- diagnostic CT scans
- lab technician and services
Award winning program
The American Heart Association has recognized UT Health Tyler with multiple achievement awards for successfully using the “Get with the Guidelines” program, the premier quality-improvement program developed by the AHA and the American Stroke Association in the categories of coronary artery disease, heart failure or stroke. This helps ensure our stroke patients will receive the high quality care expected during their stay.
Know the risk factors of stroke
Some risk factors are unavoidable, such as being male, having diabetes, being age 55 or older, having a family history of stroke or being of African-American heritage. Other risk factors can be controlled and include:
- cigarette smoking (doubles the risk)
- being overweight
- having high cholesterol or high blood pressure
- having atrial fibrillation
- lack of physical activity
- poor nutrition
- circulation problems
- excessive alcohol consumption
If you display any of these factors, call 903-594-2812 to set an appointment to evaluate your risk for stroke. Assessments are easy and painless – and could save your life!