Are You at Risk for Stroke?

Many of the MyMichigan Medical Centers participate in a Telestroke Program in partnership with the University of Michigan Health. This program connects patients in rural communities with stroke specialists through secure telemedicine, allowing for rapid evaluation, real-time imaging review and timely treatment decisions.

Each year in the United States, someone experiences a stroke every 40 seconds, making it one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability. May is recognized as National Stroke Awareness Month and serves as an important reminder for individuals to understand their personal risk and learn how to identify the warning signs of a stroke.

“Often referred to as a ‘brain attack’, a stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or ruptures, interrupting the flow of oxygen and nutrients,” says Faith D. Fuentes, M.D., neurologist and stroke program medical director for MyMichigan Health. “When this happens, brain cells begin to die within minutes. A stroke can result in significant disability including paralysis, memory loss, or difficulties with speech and movement. However, prompt medical treatment can significantly improve outcomes, making it critical to recognize symptoms and act quickly.”

Health experts, including Dr. Fuentes, encourage the public to remember the acronym BEFAST to identify stroke warning signs: sudden loss of Balance or coordination; Eye vision changes; Facial drooping or uneven smile; weakness in an Arm or leg; and slurred or confused Speech. If any of these symptoms occur, it is Time to call 911 immediately. Quick action can save brain function—and lives.

While some stroke risk factors, such as age, gender, race and family history, cannot be changed, many others can be managed. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, smoking, excessive alcohol use and physical inactivity all increase the risk of stroke. Working with a health care provider to control these conditions can significantly lower that risk.

There are two primary types of strokes. The most common, ischemic stroke, accounts for about 86 percent of all cases and occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked. Hemorrhagic strokes, which are less common, happen when a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a “mini stroke,” can serve as a warning sign. Without treatment, about 20 percent of individuals who experience a TIA will have a major stroke within a year.

MyMichigan Health provides advanced stroke care across its 26-county service area, with multiple medical centers designated as certified stroke centers. Emergency departments throughout the health system follow standardized, evidence-based protocols to ensure consistent, high-quality care. In addition, many of the MyMichigan Medical Centers participate in a Telestroke Program in partnership with the University of Michigan Health. This program connects patients in rural communities with stroke specialists through secure telemedicine, allowing for rapid evaluation, real-time imaging review and timely treatment decisions.

Among its facilities, MyMichigan Medical Center Saginaw offers the highest level of stroke care as an accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center by The Joint Commission. It is the only center of its kind north of Flint, serving the Great Lakes Bay Region and northeast Michigan by providing advanced treatment for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, including complex neurosurgical and neuro-endovascular procedures.

MyMichigan Medical Centers in Midland, Alma and West Branch, are certified as Primary Stroke Centers and are equipped to deliver timely treatments such as clot-busting medications and stabilization before transfer if needed. Medical Centers in Clare and Mt. Pleasant are designated as Acute Stroke Ready Hospitals, capable of rapid assessment and initial treatment, with access to specialists through the telestroke network.

“Understanding the signs of stroke and taking steps to reduce risk can make a critical difference,” says Dr. Fuentes. “I can’t emphasize enough that awareness and timely care are key to improving outcomes and saving lives.”

Those interested in understanding their personal risk for stroke may visit www.mymichigan.org/stroke to take MyMichigan’s free, online assessment. This resource evaluates both controllable and non-controllable factors and provides a personalized report along with practical steps to help reduce risk. Those interested in learning more about MyMichigan Health’s stroke program may also visit www.mymichigan.org/stroke.