Reading Hospital Recognizes 'National Stroke Awareness Month' With Education Events
May is National Stroke Awareness Month. Stroke is similar to a heart attack as it can change a person's life in a matter of minutes. During a stroke, blood stops flowing to an area of the brain when blood vessels get blocked or break open. Without blood flow, oxygen cannot reach the brain cells and those cells may die. If the blood flow is lost for more than several minutes, brain tissue around this area dies and that can lead to a loss of function in other areas of the body.
Reading Hospital will host two events this month to provide education on the warning signs and treatment of a stroke. Attendees will learn what to do if someone is having a stroke and the importance of emergent response and rapid treatment.
"Symptoms of a stroke vary but may include blurred vision, severe headache, speech difficulties, weakness, and loss of balance. If not treated rapidly, stroke can lead to lifelong debilitation," said Lisa Leschek-Gelman, MD, Chief, Section of Neurology at Reading Hospital. "You never know who will suffer from a stroke, so I encourage everyone to attend these important events to learn the warning signs and what to do."
Events include:
Monday, May 13 from noon to 1 p.m. at The Highlands at Wyomissing, 2000 Cambridge Avenue, Wyomissing. Cost is $10 and that includes lunch. Attendees will learn about prevention, signs of a stroke, risk factors, and the importance of rapid treatment of stroke.
Wednesday, May 22 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at DoubleTree by Hilton, 701 Penn Street, Reading. Registration is free, includes light refreshments. Experts from Reading Hospital will discuss stroke prevention, risk factors, and treatment options available at Reading Hospital's Primary Stroke Center. Attendees will also hear a patient's remarkable story of recovery and local EMS providers will share the life-saving benefits and reasons to always call 9-1-1.
Reading Hospital
Reading Hospital is the flagship, Magnet Recognized, acute care hospital of Tower Health. Located in West Reading, Pa., Reading Hospital is a 714-bed hospital that is home to many top-tier specialty care centers, including Reading HealthPlex, McGlinn Cancer Institute, Miller Regional Heart Center, Emergency Department, Level I Trauma Center and Beginnings Maternity Center, which houses the region's only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). With more than 1,000 physicians, specialists, and advanced practice providers across 49 locations, Reading Hospital has been recognized for its quality outcomes and clinical expertise across services lines. It is listed as one of America's 100 Best Hospitals for four consecutive years and received a 5-Star Rating from CMS two years in a row. For more information, visit towerhealth.org.