SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
Renown’s Institute for Neurosciences is hosting a Stroke Awareness Luncheon, Monday, May 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Mack Auditorium at Renown Regional Medical Center, 1155 Mill Street. The luncheon will focus on stroke education including how to recognize stroke warning signs.
“By recognizing the warning signs and taking action, you may be able to prevent a stroke or reduce its severity,” said Dr. Paul M. Katz, M.D., medical director for the Renown Institute for Neurosciences. “Brain damage can begin within minutes, so it is important to know the symptoms of stroke and act fast.”
Dr. Katz will serve as host for the luncheon that will feature a panel of experts including a nutritionist, representative from REMSA, stroke survivor and caregiver, physical therapist and secondary prevention doctor.
It has been said that when it comes to stroke, time is brain. Every second can mean a world of difference in the recovery of a stroke patient. Stroke, also called “brain attack,” occurs when the blood flow to the brain is disrupted. This disruption is caused when either a blood clot or piece of plaque blocks one of the vital blood vessels in the brain (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts spilling blood into surrounding tissues (hemorrhagic stroke).
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and the primary cause of disability. If any of these symptoms are present, call 911 immediately:
- numbness, weakness or paralysis of the face or in an arm or leg, occurring in one or both sides of the body
- sudden blurred or decreased vision in one or both eyes
- difficulty speaking or understanding
- dizziness, loss of balance or an unexplained fall
- headache (usually severe and of abrupt onset) or unexplained change in headache pattern
To RSVP for the Stroke luncheon, please call the Health Hotline at 775-982-5757. Cost for the luncheon is $10. People interested in learning more about the Renown Institute for Neurosciences can visit www.renown.org. The luncheon is being held in conjunction with National Stroke Awareness Month.
Renown’s Comprehensive Stroke Center became the first in Nevada to earn the Gold Seal of Approval® Primary Stroke Center certification for stroke care by The Joint Commission. This prestigious certification signifies that the Comprehensive Stroke Center meets the highest national standards for healthcare safety and quality of care.
The Renown Institute for Neurosciences also hosts Stroke Support Groups on the second Wednesday of every month from 6-7 p.m. at Renown Institute for Neurosciences, 10085 Double R Blvd, Ste. 325. These meetings are offered for stroke survivors, their family members, friends and caregivers. Location and time may vary, please contact Nicholas Green, BSN RN, 775-982-7331, to confirm.
