Stroke Program

A stroke is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.  A stroke occurs when the brain does not get enough blood.  Blood supply is decreased when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or ruptures.  As a result, part of the brain begins to die. 

Most strokes can be prevented by recognizing and controlling risk factors.  Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, heart disease and cigarette smoking. Symptoms of a stroke are sudden and include one-sided weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, trouble understanding, facial droop, trouble seeing, dizziness, and severe headache.

Primary Stroke Center Designation

York Hospital is certified as a Primary Stroke Center.  This certification recognizes centers that have made exceptional efforts to foster better outcomes.  Led by a fellowship-trained stroke neurologist, the York Hospital Stroke Team provides consultation on stroke patients in the emergency department and throughout their hospital stay.  Our team is comprised of healthcare providers from many disciplines who are well trained in the management of stroke.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A stroke is diagnosed with a CT scan or MRI.  A stroke can be treated if patients arrive to the hospital quickly.  The treatment is known as a "clot buster".  It can help reverse or decrease the effects of a stroke.  Testing is done to help determine what caused the stroke.  These tests include a carotid ultrasound and echocardiogram.

Secondary prevention is vital to prevent another stroke from happening.  Medications such as aspirin, Plavix, Aggrenox, or Coumadin may be prescribed.  All of these medicines are commonly referred to as "blood thinners".  Blood pressure and cholesterol medication also helps decrease the chance of having another stroke. 

Education

Our stroke team offers a variety of education opportunities for the community including risk assessments, Stroke 101 and Brain Bingo.  To schedule a WellSpan Speaker's Bureau presentation for your group or organization, please contact the WellSpan Public Relations Department at (717) 851-2424.

Support

Contact the American Stroke Association or the National Stroke Association for additional information. 

WellSpan Stroke Specialists

Marta Jimenez, M.D.

Robert Sterling, Jr., M.D.

Kimberly Dietz, CRNP

Health Content

Stroke